Subluxations

From SkepticWiki

1 Definition
- 1.1 Origins
- 1.2 Quotations
2 Discussion
3 Related Topics
4 References
5 Comments

[edit] Definition

A real (orthopedic) subluxation is an incomplete or partial joint dislocation. It is objectively verifiable and visible on x-ray films, and is usually symptomatic. It isn't always amenable to Spinal Manipulative Therapy (SMT).

A chiropractic "subluxation" may be a real orthopedic subluxation, but it usually is not. (See Discussion below)

[edit] Origins

[edit] Quotations

The National Association for Chiropractic Medicine has this to say:

"The first and foremost requirement for membership in the NACM is that a Doctor of Chiropractic Medicine renounce the chiropractic hypothesis and/or philosophy; that is, the tenets upon which their scope of practice is based. The original chiropractic hypothesis, stated simply, is that "subluxation is the cause of dis-ease." Modern day chiropractic associations may have expanded and changed this simple statement for the public, but the reality is that this remains the backbone of chiropractic education and practice to this day."

[edit] Discussion

Chiropractic misuses the term "subluxation" to mean anything a chiropractor wants it to mean. They are claimed to exist in all people, even existing in the absence of symptoms, without there necessarily being any objective means to confirm their identification. Their diagnosis is thus seen to be a subjective decision made by the chiropractor in question. No two chiropractors can be sure of identifying the same "subluxation".

Chiropractic defines itself, not alone by its dependence on and use of "adjustments" to "correct" chiropractic "subluxations", it especially defines itself by its unique reasons for doing so. In this respect it is unique from all other healthcare professions, and cements itself in pseudoscience.

The mythical chiropractic "subluxation" is the foundation of the whole profession. Without it chiropractic loses its uniqueness, and thus its legitimacy as a unique, separate and necessary profession.

Other professions can provide legitimate spinal manipulative therapy when necessary, without any need to resort to using fanciful and unscientific definitions of subluxation to justify their existence.

The National Association for Chiropractic Medicine, a small group of reform chiropractors, officially renounces any belief in the chiropractic "subluxation." Unfortunately the rest of the profession refuses to do so.