Studying and understanding the neurology of the human anatomy, it is appropriate to apply neurology to the classical "pinched nerve" syndrome which in many instances does not exist. The proper diagnostic testing will differentiate if the patient indeed has a nerve entrapment syndrome which conservative Chiropractic treatment can correct, or a more serious intervertebral disc condition that needs appropriate referral for neuro-surgical consultation to correct the problem.

The "bone-out-of-place" theory in Chiropractic is a misnomer. The "bone-out-of-place" in many instances is a subluxation complex, not an actual dislocation. The subluxation complex is a multi-faceted complex involving 5 parameters*; neuropatho-physiology, kinesiopathology, myopathology, histopathology, and biochemical mediators that elicit spasms and pain and dysfunction. The logical rational for the adjustment of the subluxation complex is to find the loss of mobility or fixation and using adjustive procedures to mobilize the fixation and the re-check to confirm that movement has improved and the 5 parameters of the subluxation complex are beginning to abate.

*Subluxation Complex:

Neuro-pathophysiology
Irritation equals facilitation and pressure equals degeneration.

Kinesiopathology
Hypomobility, hypermobility, fixation, loss of joint play, compensation, and instantaneous change of axis of movement

Myopathology
Spasm compensation, facilitation, visceral motor reflex and atonia

Histopathology
Cellular flow of inflammatory process, edema and tissue damage

Biochemical
Chemical mediators of pain irritating the C fibers resulting from stress syndrome and pro inflammatory agents namely lactic acid, potassium ions, histamine, five hydroxy tryptophane, leucotrinan B4, prostaglandin E and bradykinin.