Chiropractors have historically maintained that even small amounts of pressure on the nerves that exit the spine can cause problems for people. They have even stated that this pressure can go undetected for years and lead to long term health problems. A review of literature published in the Volume 4 No. 2 Issue of the Journal of Vertebral Subluxation Research JVSR.com  adds further evidence to chiropractic's theory.

The study titled: "The Effects of Mild Compression on Spinal Nerve Roots With Implications for Models of Vertebral Subluxation and the Clinical Effects of Chiropractic Adjustment: A Review of the Literature" was authored by Scott Alderson D.C., a private practitioner and George Muhs D.C., D.A.B.C.N.,C.C.N. Assistant Professor of Clinical Services at the University of Bridgeport College of Chiropractic.

Chiropractic theory maintains that spinal vertebrae can become misaligned and/or not move properly, which could place abnormal pressure on nerves and then cause interference with how those nerves work. Chiropractors call these misalignments and neurological alterations vertebral subluxations.

According to the authors their review of the research shows that "These alterations would therefore alter the quality and/or quantity of the message sent. At the tissue and cellular level, the message received would not be adequate for the function the body demands. The entire body could then theoretically be affected."

The authors also discuss the possibility that subluxations can go unnoticed for long periods of time since they may not be severe enough in the beginning stages to create outward signs and symptoms. According to the authors this makes the "healing process age and degree dependent. One must consider the age of the person with a vertebral subluxation, the younger they are, the better the chance for a complete correction."