Arthritis

Subluxation degeneration (arthritis) is related to the same process the body uses to mend bone. The body attempts to fuse the adjacent spinal bones together. Like the mineral deposits in a cave, if given enough time, adjacent spinal bones can fuse:

• Regardless of age, when spinal damage goes uncorrected, the body deposits calcium on the surface of adjacent bones that aren't moving properly.
• If neglected long enough, this splinting effect can result in complete fusion. This process is called subluxations degeneration and can occur throughout the spine.
• Chiropractic adjustments can help prevent subluxations degeneration.

There are three phases of spinal decay:

Phase I

• This is usually seen as loss of motion and malfunction of the spine. Normal spinal curves, and disc spacing are altered. Because the body is so adaptable, this early phase exists without warning of pain or other symptoms. If left uncorrected, the degeneration continues.

Phase II

• Bone spurs and abnormal bony growths distort the shape and function of the vertebrae.
• Recognized on X-ray views of the spine by visible bone spurs and rough edges of vertebrae. Soft tissues, such as discs and ligaments degenerate from the lack of normal movement. Again, pain or other symptoms may or may not be present.

Phase III

• After years of neglect, the improperly functioning spinal joints often fuse together.
• A lifetime of neglect may cause the eventual fusion of the malfunctioning joints, permanent nerve damage, and soft tissue degeneration are prevalent. Reduced motion, impaired nervous system function, diminish one's quality of life.