• Lantz CA

• Connective Tissue Diseases
• Joints

The literature was reviewed concerning the effects of joint immobilization on the degeneration of articular and periarticular connective tissue.  Every connective tissue component of an articulation is affected by immobilization, and each major component is discussed individually; these include the articular cartilage, synovium, articular capsule, periarticular ligaments, subchondral bone, the intervertebral disc and the meninges.

Particular emphasis was placed on changes in the biochemical constituents of connective tissue, collagen, proteoglycans and hyaluronic acid, and the relation of these changes to alterations in the functional and biomechanical properties of the tissues. Thus an attempt is made here to establish a molecular basis for the theory and practice of chiropractic.

Each connective tissue component has its own pattern of degeneration and each contributes in its own unique way to joint stiffness following immobilization.  Of particular significance to chiropractic is the observation that many of the changes observed following immobilization are reversible upon remobilization of the joint within a reasonable period of time. The time course of events in the degenerative process is significant in this regard and is discussed in detail.  The reported changes are evaluated in light of the five components of the vertebral subluxation complex: kinesiopathology, neuropathology, myopathology, histopathology and biochemical abnormalities.  In particular, the relation between the degenerative process and neurological elements associated with the spinal joints is discussed. The relation of spinal mobility to immobilization studies performed on extremities is discussed, as well as the extrapolation of results from animal experiments to the human condition. Recommendations are presented for future directions in research on the issue of subluxations and chiropractic adjustive procedures.

This abstract is reproduced with the permission of the publisher.