• Rome PL
• Waterhouse JD

• Cerebrospinal Fluid
• Chiropractic
• Intervertebral Foramen
• Open Access Document
• Subluxation
• Vertebral Subluxation Complex

Narrative: This report discusses possible factors thought to alter nerve transmission as influenced by segmental mechanical disruption being one of the elements in a Vertebral Subluxation Complex (VSC). In addition to noxious sensory input, this discussion raises the possibility of the following physical modifier under the influence of segmental biomechanical disturbance. 

We hypothesise on what potential influence an intersegmental functional fixation may have on vascular and Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF) circulation due to disturbed neural function within the Intervertebral Foramen (IVF). 

As the adjacent lips of articular facets form a part of the IVF margin, it is proposed here that the intersegmental articular fixation element of a VSC has the potential to also limit motion within the foramen, and potentially modify the flow of CSF within the neural sleeves which bathe the spinal nerve 
roots. We speculate that the effect of the fixation may lead to CSF stasis, or at least reduced CSF circulation within that radicular setting. In turn, that this may effect the spinal nerve root neurons and nerve transmission. Telano & Baker (2022) and Whedon and Glassey (2009) state that CSF ‘appears to be particularly prone to stasis due to the relatively high capacitance of the lumbar cistern and lower intrathecal pressures in the distal spinal canal.’ 

Author keywords: Chiropractic - Vertebral Subluxation Complex - Subluxation - IVF - Intervertebral foramen - CSF - Hypothesis. 

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