NBCE Exam 2026 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the National Board of Chiropractic Examiners

In chiropractic practice, the term 'subluxation' is understood to mean a partial dislocation of a vertebra. This concept is central to chiropractic philosophy, which posits that misalignments in the spine can lead to a range of health issues, including nerve interference that affects overall bodily function.

A subluxation is characterized by a slight misalignment of the vertebrae that does not completely dislocate the joint, yet may still impair normal movement and nerve function. Chiropractors aim to identify and treat these subluxations through various adjustment techniques, intending to restore proper alignment and biomechanics while promoting optimal neurological function.

Complete dislocation, joint inflammation, and soft tissue injury do not accurately capture the essence of what a subluxation represents in this context. Complete dislocation implies a more severe displacement, which is not in line with the chiropractic definition. Joint inflammation typically refers to conditions such as arthritis, while soft tissue injury pertains more to damage involving muscles, ligaments, or tendons rather than the bony structures of the spine where subluxations occur. Thus, the definition aligns closely with the idea of a partial dislocation, making it a foundational concept in chiropractic care.