Controversy in the Chiropractic Field

Remembering an article I cam across when researching vertebral subluxation, I decided to revisit Sam Homola's Science-Based Medicine website to revisit the controversy of the chiropractic field.

Basically, the main idea behind all of Homola's articles is that the vertebral subluxation complex theory (which I first introduced here) has no scientific evidence and should therefore be rejected. This theory points to misalignments of the spine as the main cause of organic disease, and describes symptoms of viral diseases that can supposedly arise from subluxation. My personal belief is that this theory is false.

According to Homola, an article on Forbes.com cited that $496 million was spent on chiropractic care in the U.S. Although he admits that such treatment can be useful for alleviating mechanical back pain and musculoskeletal disorders, many people who seek chiropractic care do not know the difference between the orthopaedic subluxation and vertebral subluxation complex theories, and may, in his opinion, be wasting their money because of it.

One of the major opinions behind the controversial theory (keep in mind, not all chiropractors subscribe to this), is that spinal juxtaposition can “compromise neural integrity and may influence organ system function and general health," an opinion that sounds far-fetched, if not entirely unbelievable. Homola argues that major health providers such as Medicare should not pay for unneccesary spinal treatment for organic disease. This is a very important topic right now with the Obamacare bill having passed and health insurance being a mandatory obligation for citizens of the United States.

That being said, it is perfectly reasonable to assume chiropractic adjustments can help decrease back pain. In fact, that logic has been proven several times by x-rays and the laws of physiology. However, until modern medicine and chiropractic practice can come to a consensus, the latter will likely not come into acceptance by the entire population. Homola proposes a renunciation of the vertebral subluxation complex theory to achieve this, however, the belief in that theory is still strongly held by some chiropractors and patients.

An article in Gale Opposing Viewpoints in Context supports the vertebral subluxation complex theory, stating that general wellness can be achieved through "spinal hygiene", or regular care and correction of the spine. Spinal distortion, putting pressure on the nervous system, allegedly interferes with the ability of the brain to control the rest of the body. However, those who believe this are in the minority. Verbal corroboration from those who have experienced chiropractic care for organic disease is often, for this reason, chalked up to the placebo effect and neuroscience that has nothing to do with the spine.

As for you? What's your opinion on the topic?

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