Chiropractic is a clinical science. As such, there are a number of different examinations that we use to determine if you have a subluxation. These include:
- Postural Analysis
- Static Palpation
- Motion Palpation
- Orthopaedic and Neurologic Testing
- Muscle Testing
- Leg length measuring
- Heat reading
- X-Ray
1. Postural Analysis
We look for major distortions in the overall balance of your body. Some things we look for include:
- Forward or backward lean
- Sideways lean
- Tilt of the head
- Rotation of the head
- Shoulder elevation
- Winging of shoulder blades
- Pelvic tilt
- Knee rotation
- Ankle rotation
Though these tests do not point to a specific subluxation, they do show general areas which need to be checked.
2. Motion Palpation
To help identify specific areas of subluxation, we examine your spine directly. We do this by static palpation, which includes feeling bony prominences, muscle tightness and swelling.
3. Motion Palpation
A key finding in any stage of subluxation degeneration is a change in the normal movement of the spine. This procedure will locate specific areas of increased or decreased mobility which are part of the subluxation complex.
4. Orthopaedic and Neurologic Testing
Orthopaedic and neurologic tests can show the extent to which body functions have been affected by your subluxations. These tests are helpful in estimating the length of treatment necessary for recovery as well as the monitoring of your progress.
5. Muscle Testing
Muscle weakness may indicate an alteration of the nerve supply from the spine due to subluxation. The nerve supply of the affected muscle comes from a specific region of the spine. These tests help to locate the problem area.
6. Leg length
Muscle contraction may make one leg appear longer or shorter than the other. Such muscle contraction is indicative of certain subluxation patterns. We will watch for changes in your leg length throughout the treatment program. If you were born with or suffered trauma, causing leg change, we will help you obtain proper support.
7. Heat reading
We may use a heat reading device on the skin over your spine to determine your pattern of subluxations. Changes in this pattern will give specific information about your progress.
8. X-Ray
Now that these tests have been run to determine what effects the subluxation has had on your body as a whole, it is time to see the spinal structures. X-rays will tell us whether you have a structural abnormality or degeneration which will require special care.
Comprehensive Analysis
After the initial consultation, we will determine which of these tests are appropriate. We will give you a report of the findings and discuss the benefits of chiropractic care for you. In some cases, other tests may be necessary. While under chiropractic care, please do your best to keep all your appointments. This will ensure the best possible results in the improvement of your health.
Your case is studied thoroughly and we know exactly how to help you improve. Your family deserves the same thorough examination to detect possible subluxations. Make an appointment for them soon.
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