What Is a Subluxation?
In chiropractic terms, a subluxation refers to a spinal joint that isn’t moving or aligned the way it should, potentially placing stress on nearby spinal nerves and affecting how the body functions. This is a distinct use of the word from its meaning in radiology, where “subluxation” describes a partial dislocation visible on an X-ray. When chiropractors use the term, they’re describing a functional joint restriction, not necessarily a visible structural dislocation.
The Subluxation-Focused Approach
Subluxation-focused chiropractic, the approach practiced at Align Chiropractic & Wellness, centers on identifying and correcting these areas of restricted spinal motion directly — with the broader goal of supporting nervous system function, not only relieving the symptom that brought a patient in. This differs from purely pain-based chiropractic care, which focuses on treating a specific complaint in isolation.
Techniques Used at Align
- Diversified Technique — the classic, manual, hands-on adjustment, using a precise, controlled thrust to restore motion to a fixated spinal joint.
- Y-Strap Adjustment — a traction-assisted technique using a strap to deliver a brief, controlled stretch to the neck and upper spine.
- Activator Method — a gentle, instrument-assisted adjustment using a handheld spring-loaded tool for a lower-force, targeted correction.
What Does Research Say?
Spinal manipulation — the general technique underlying chiropractic adjustments — has been studied for several conditions. Current research, summarized by the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH), generally supports:
- Low-back pain: spinal manipulation may lead to small-to-moderate improvements in pain and function for some people. The American College of Physicians includes it among recommended non-drug options for chronic low-back pain.
- Neck pain and certain headache types (including migraine and cervicogenic headache): some evidence suggests spinal manipulation may be helpful.
- Sciatica: evidence is more mixed — some individual studies show improvement, while broader reviews describe the evidence as inconclusive.
As with any care approach, results vary by individual. Chiropractic care is not a substitute for emergency medical evaluation — see “When to Seek Immediate Medical Care” on our Conditions Treated page.
Who Practices Subluxation-Focused Care at Align
Dr. Rommil Fernandez, DC, a graduate of Los Angeles College of Chiropractic (Class of 2003) and licensed by the California Board of Chiropractic Examiners, has practiced subluxation-focused, hands-on chiropractic care in Burbank for over 23 years. Read more on our About page.
Is Subluxation-Focused Chiropractic Right for You?
If you’re looking for hands-on, personalized care from an experienced practitioner — not a rushed visit dictated by an insurance schedule — Align Chiropractic & Wellness may be a good fit. Call (818) 848-2225 to schedule a consultation.