Chiropractor Analysis, Assessment Example

Intervertebral Disc- disc that lies between the adjacent vertebrae in the vertebral column and acts as a ligament to hold the vertebrae together.

Annulus fibrosus- outer fibrous ring that surrounds the intervertebral discs.

Nucleus pulposus- inner gel-like center of the intervertebral discs.

Roots- posterior and anterior nerve fibers that make up spinal nerves

Rootlets- small roots or divisions of roots.

Primary Afferent Neuron- the primary neurons involved in the carrying of nerve impulses from receptors to the central nervous system.

Simple Reflex Arc- neural pathway that controls an action reflex.

ALL Anatomical parts the Cervical Spine- seven bony rings in the neck responsible for supporting the head, protecting the spinal cord, and giving mobility to neck and head.

• C1- Atlas or 1^st Cervical Vertebra.
• C2- Axis or 2^nd Cervical Vertebra
• C3- 3^rd Cervical Vertebra
• C4- 4th Cervical Vertebra
• C5- 5th Cervical Vertebra
• C6- 6th Cervical Vertebra
• C7- 7th Cervical Vertebra

ALL the Cervical Spinal Nerves and Discs- eight spinal nerves that are responsible for messages and functions all around the body. The six cervical discs allow for movement of the vertebrae.

• C1 and C2- control the head.
• C3 and C4- control of diaphragm
• C5- control of delts and biceps.
• C6- control of wrist extensors and biceps.
• C7- control of triceps.
• C8- control of hands.

The anatomy and the functions of the anatomical areas within the cervical spine are particularly important for chiropractors because this is the area where stress is most often found and causes the most problems for the patients. This area is also of crucial importance to the rest of the body as it holds the place where all the nerves send their messages and is responsible for supporting this area. Nerve injuries are most often related to trauma which include: lacerations, gunshot wounds, stretch injury, drug injection, and electrical charges. The other common cause of nerve injuries is neurological disorders. The risks of nerve injuries include loss of feeling in injured area and muscle dysfunction. Yes, a chiropractor can cause injuries to nerves in the cervical spine under conditions that may make it easier for a nerve to be pinched or if the nerves are fragile due to the discs. In order to avoid this patient history is crucial and considering the age and maturity of the patient’s bones is essential.