Report: Spinal arthritis begins within two weeks of joint immobility
Spinal Pathophysiology refers to the osteoarthritic degenerative changes that occur in a spine that has lost its normal range of motion. The journal Clinical Biomechanics reported as far back as 1987 (issue 2: 223-229) that joint immobility, such as that which occurs in the Vertebral Subluxation Complex, can lead to permanent damage in as little as two weeks. According to Tapio Videman, MD, author of the study, “Immobilization, for whatever cause, will initiate a pathogenic [disease producing] chain of musculo-skeletal degenerative changes.”
How does this relate to Chiropractic? When a spinal subluxation occurs, the joints become stuck or immobile, unable to move in their normal range of motion and the degenerative process known as osteoarthritis begins. According to Dr. Videman, if this immobility is not corrected within two weeks, the osteoarthritis becomes permanent. These permanent changes can’t be reversed but they can be kept from getting worse by restoring the mobility to the stuck joint. This is one reason why a lifetime of chiropractic wellness care is so important.
If permanent spinal damage can occur within two weeks of a vertebra subluxating, when do you want to get adjusted? As soon as possible. How do you know if you have a subluxation? Visit your chiropractor. Many times people wait until they hurt to get their spine adjusted. By the time the pain from a subluxation shows up, it may have been there for months or even years.
Patients always ask us what is the best adjustment frequency to maintain their spine… My recommendation is the same that I do for myself and my family: Weekly adjustments. At minimum, you want to get your spine adjusted every two weeks to correct subluxations before they lead to permanent damage.
In summary, to maintain your spine you have 2 options:
1. Weekly Adjustments
2. Every-other-week Adjustments
Anything less, your spine is beginning a process of degeneration and permanent damage.
Choose Wellness Chiropractic Care For Life!
-Dr Tim Weselak