Toward a Taxonomy of Subluxation-Equivalents

Purpose: This article reevaluates the conventional wisdom that chiropractic requires a consensus definition of subluxation for professional identity and unity.

Approach: The groundwork is laid for an eventual Linnaean classification of subluxation-equivalents by delineating the primary characteristics into which the various concepts might fall. The overriding concern is that categorizations derive from clinical practice rather than ideologic constructs.

Summary: Chiropractic technique systems typically posit one or more subluxation equivalents at their core. These may be categorized according to their defining characteristics, prior to populating these categories with examples from the specific technique systems and adjustive procedures. The elaboration of a subluxation taxonomy would situate the research imperative on firmer ground, providing a well-prioritized and evidence-based inventory of clinical phenomena worthy of improved understanding.

Cooperstein R, Gleberzon BJ. Toward a Taxonomy of Subluxation-Equivalents. Topics in Clinical Chiropractic. 2001;8(1):49-60.