Degeneration

Proper alignment of the spine and other joints is essential for healthy and pain free living. When there is trauma to a joint one of the ways that your body responds is to stabilize the area by the formation of new bone. Over time calcium deposits build up, eventually as abnormal bony growth. This arthritic splinting of bones is nature’s attempt of stabilizing the injured joint. If left untreated this subluxation takes the form on ongoing degeneration and can lead to chronic health problems.

As these x-rays show there is a progressive degeneration that can be altered or slowed with proper chiropractic care.

NORMAL

Proper spinal curves permit normal turning and bending. Opening between joints allow nerve roots to exit the spine without interference. The edges of the bones are smooth and well defined. Equal space between the discs is a good sign of a healthy joint.

PHASE ONE

Loss of normal curve and misalignment restrict or exaggerate normal ranges of motion. Ligament and muscle strength is reduced. Even with nerve irritation and soft tissue inflammation, pain or other obvious symptoms may not be present.

PHASE TWO

Years of accumulated calcium deposition are now visible. Bone spurs attempt to fuse malfunctioning joints. Adjacent surfaces are rough and uneven. Joint instability is accompanied by continued nerve irritation and disc degeneration.

PHASE THREE

After years of neglect, complete fusion has immobilized the joint. Obstructed nerve openings cause permanent nerve irritation as soft tissue degeneration continues. This irreversible condition is usually associated with other chronic health problems.