Subluxation: What It Is and What To Do About It

Diagram showing a subluxation in the cervical vertebrae, with labeled parts to identify the misalignment

Subluxation remains a relatively unknown condition to a majority of people. Yet, the majority of sport-related shoulder injuries are due to shoulder subluxations. While subluxations can lead to dislocations, it typically refers to partial damage to joints rather than a full dislocation. 

Subluxation Houston can occur as a result of various factors. Most of the time, subluxations occur due to trauma, a stroke that weakens the arm muscle, and injuries. A shoulder subluxation occurs when the humerus ball is partially dislocated from the glenoid cavity of the scapula. 

Below, we explained what subluxation is and what to do about it.

What Is Subluxation?

Subluxation defines abnormalities in the positions of the joints and spine, usually concerning injuries. As mentioned above, subluxation also refers to partial dislocation of joints or shifts in the spine. The symptoms of the subluxation can greatly affect the quality of life.

The subluxation can also affect blood flow in areas where it occurs. This is because subluxation affects the structure of the body. As a result of reduced blood flow, individuals with a subluxation may experience headaches and difficulty concentrating while performing daily tasks. 

Symptoms Of Subluxation

A subluxation is harder to identify than a full dislocation. In some cases, it is possible to see the partially dislocated humerus beneath the skin. Individuals with a shoulder subluxation may also be able to feel the movement of the humerus as it moves in and out of the shoulder socket. This movement is usually uncomfortable and can be quite painful.

Symptoms of the subluxation can include: 

Causes Of Subluxation

Most joints can move in various directions, and when a subluxation occurs, it can also occur in any direction the joint is capable of moving. When a partial dislocation occurs, the joint capsule may stretch or tear, complicating the subluxation. 

A shoulder subluxation can occur from a forceful blow to the shoulder joint, which may knock out the humerus from its position in the glenoid cavity. Forceful and extreme arm rotation can also pull the humerus from the glenoid cavity and cause a partial dislocation. 

Subluxation is usually caused by:

  • Trauma: Injuries and accidents can damage a joint or the structures that stabilize the joint resulting in a partial dislocation. Motor accidents and falls are common examples of events that can cause trauma to a joint. 
  • Sports injuries: Various contact sports and sports involving falling are usually common causes of subluxations. The most common subluxation from sports injuries is shoulder subluxation. 
  • Stroke: Strokes may cause muscle weakness. The weakening of muscles that support the shoulder joint may result in destabilization of the shoulder joint and subsequent subluxation. 

Research has shown that physically active groups and young men have the greatest risk of subluxation. 

Subluxation Diagnosis And Treatment

A subluxation is usually diagnosed via ultrasound. Once the diagnosis is made, various subluxation treatments in Houston can be carried out. Chiropractic care can also be used in the treatment of subluxation. Chiropractors are licensed professionals who specialize in the musculoskeletal system. Chiropractors reduce pain by performing manipulations and subluxation adjustments to the spine and other body parts. 

There are a lot of benefits to chiropractic treatments. Common benefits of chiropractic treatment include reduced pain and inflammation, increased range of motion, and much more. Chiropractic treatments also have benefits in everyday life, even without injuries. Chiropractic treatment is aimed at optimizing your physical condition and energy flow. 

Below are some of the treatment procedures performed for shoulder subluxation:

  • Closed reduction: In this procedure, the bone is gently maneuvered back into position. Once this is achieved, the pain usually reduces drastically.
  • Shoulder brace: This is used to immobilize the shoulder. The length of time is usually dependent on the extent of dislocation.
  • Medication: Anti-inflammatory and muscle-relaxing drugs are usually given for pain and swelling.
  • Surgery: This is usually recommended for recurring dislocations and is the preferred treatment option when ligaments, nerves, and blood vessels in the shoulder have been damaged.
  • Rehabilitation: After using a shoulder brace or undergoing surgery, rehabilitation may be recommended to restore mobility, stability, and strength to the joint.

Finding Professional Chiropractor Treatment in Houston, TX

Subluxations can cause pain and affect your ability to carry out daily activities. Fortunately, chiropractic treatments are available for subluxation. Chiropractic subluxation treatment Houston can help eliminate pain and improve mobility, ensuring that you perform activities pain-free. To learn more about how the Best Rated Houston chiropractors Dr. Gregory Johnson D.C. and Dr. Tristan Wendt D.C. at Advanced Chiropractic Relief can help you finally find relief.

Schedule your Get Relief Consultation Today!