The Epidemiology of Vertebral Subluxation

All too often, chiropractic is criticized as an “unscientific” discipline, lacking empirical research to validate the assertion that vertebral subluxations have an adverse effect on the human nervous system, on general health and well-being and by extension, society as a whole. It is the extension to society as a whole where subluxation has been theorized to have its most detrimental effects. If this is true, then this is also where its elucidation holds the greatest promise for influencing and affecting communal expression. The systematic study of the epidemiology and global burden of vertebral subluxation should be carried out by individuals and groups with a worldview towards chiropractic that is consistent with the theory that subluxations pose a hindrance to the fullest expression of life. The results of this type of research can then be used to drive policy, not only in health care, but in education and other sociocultural arenas. In this brief lecture Dr. McCoy reviews what is needed to answer fundamental questions regarding vertebral subluxation.