About Vancouver Chiropractic and Vancouver Spinal Instability

Definition 

Spinal stability is a balance of flexibility to allow pain-free movement and rigidity to protect the organs as well as control our up-right posture and necessary movement of our bodies. Spinal stability depends on the intervertebral disc, ligament and muscle strength integrity to allow normal motion without excessive movement that causes pain.

Spinal instability occurs when the disc, ligaments and musculature are not balanced. Spinal instability is diagnosed when one vertebra exceeds 3 mm of motion upon its adjacent vertebra. Instability can compromise the spinal canal size and the nerves within the canal, producing irritation and pain.

Spinal instability has its greatest etiology - cause of the disease - from the intervertebral disc itself. When the disc degenerates, it loses its elastic properties and allows excessive motion of one vertebra on its adjacent, neighboring one. As the disc degenerates, it places more compressive stress on the facets joints which then become arthritic and cause pain. When the balance of flexibility and stability is altered, pain often results. 

Conditions of Instability

• Spondylolisthesis 
• Retrolisthesis
• Spina bifida occulta

Regaining stability to an instable spine requires gentle treatment with Cox Technic as well as rehabilitation and exercise to strengthen and balance the muscles and ligaments of the spine.

Contact Vancouver Disc Centers to discuss any instability you have with your spine.