B.J. Palmer's early model of vertebral subluxation included the component of pressure on nerves and over the past several decades this model has undergone some scrutiny. The "newer" models dealing with dysafferentation and facilitation have, to some extent, pushed aside the notion that direct mechanical pressure on the nerve roots is a major grouping of subluxation.

Drs. Boone and Dobson point out in their series of articles in the Journal of Vertebral Subluxation Research [1-3] that this shift away from the early model was not based on research but was in fact the result of political tweaking of the various definitions of subluxation.

Dr. Kent points out in his article on "Models of Vertebral Subluxation" [4] that the nerve compression model is far from obsolete.

Thanks to a review of the literature on the topic recently published in the Journal of Vertebral Subluxation Research, this model now has further evidence to support and strengthen it.

The paper, "The Effects of Mild Compression on Spinal Nerve Roots With Implications for Models of Vertebral Subluxation and the Clinical Effects of Chiropractic Adjustment," was authored by Scott Alderson, D.C. and George Muhs D.C., D.A.B.C.N., C.C.N.

It is a comprehensive review of the hard bone - soft nerve concept of subluxation. [5]

The lead author graduated from the University of Bridgeport College of Chiropractic in May, 2000. The paper was completed as part of his requirements for graduation and is a testament to the talent residing in our chiropractic college students when it comes to research and scholarly activity.

Originally wanting to do another study dealing with children who have been under chiropractic care since the first year of their life, Dr. Alderson had to change the topic when his advisor would not approve the survey questions.

According to Alderson "With 4 weeks to go before graduation and no thesis in sight, I chose to do a literature review that could potentially irritate as many faculty as possible. I originally called the paper 'Hard Bone-Soft Nerve' after the colloquial terminology for subluxation. Since most of the school was based on the joint complex dysfunction and pain modulation concept I figured this to be a good poke at their dogma."

Alderson states that significant aspects of the review of literature include evidence that mild to moderate pressures at the level of the nerve root are significant and prevalent. "This review shows that the idea that the nerve root is only affected under gross pathological conditions like disc herniations is clearly wrong and secondly that learned postural aberrations might possibly lead to detrimental situations for the nerve root," he explains.

The paper also discusses the impact of the adjustment on subluxation and nerve root compression. Alderson explained "on a more microscopic level the subluxation produces somewhat of a mini-strain to the area. Scar tissue is laid down and/or soft tissues swell, all leading to motion restriction and subsequent nutritional problems in and around the vertebral joints and related structures. Encroachment occurs, but the adjustment increases segmental motion improving imbibition, decreasing swelling, altering scar tissue and thus decreasing the pressure on the nerve roots."

The authors feel that those who think the nerve root compression model is obsolete need to take a better look at the research. They also state that more research in this area needs to be done such as looking at the thoracic segments.

He feels strongly that chiropractic researchers need to focus on whole body health and wellness when researching chiropractic. "The public is more than happy to pop a pill for their low back pain. Let's show the public that their entire being can be improved through the detection and correction of subluxation and solidify our future."

When asked for his advice to practitioners who want to get involved in chiropractic research he replied, "Research is like hiking up a large mountain. If you focus too much on the top, it appears too great a task. First you choose the mountain. Then you prepare your equipment. Choose the aim of the research and then arm yourself with the proper material for a foundation. As the hike begins make sure the load you carry is not so great as to wear you out before completion. Occasionally look to the top to keep your bearings but mostly concentrate on the next step and don't forget to watch the scenery along the way. It might also be beneficial to have a friend or two along to divide up the load and socialize with along the way."

Dr. Alderson and Muhs' paper can be found in the Vol. 4 # 2 issue of the Journal of Vertebral Subluxation Research.

[1] Boone WR., Dobson GJ. "A Proposed Vertebral Subluxation Model Reflecting Traditional Concepts and Recent Advances in Health and Science." Journal of Vertebral Subluxation Research. Vol. 1 No. 1

2. Boone WR., Dobson GJ. "A Proposed Vertebral Subluxation Model Reflecting Traditional Concepts and Recent Advances in Health and Science." Part II. Journal of Vertebral Subluxation Research. Vol. 1 No. 2

3. Boone WR., Dobson GJ. "A Proposed Vertebral Subluxation Model Reflecting Traditional Concepts and Recent Advances in Health and Science. Part III." Journal of Vertebral Subluxation Research. Vol. 1 No. 3

4. Kent C. "Models of Vertebral Subluxation: A Review." Journal of Vertebral Subluxation Research. Vol. 1 No. 1.

5. Alderson RS., Muhs GJ. "The Effects of Mild Compression on Spinal Nerve Roots With Implications for Models of Vertebral Subluxation and the Clinical Effects of Chiropractic Adjustment: A Review of the Literature." Journal of Vertebral Subluxation Research. Vol. 4 No. 2. 2001.