The one most pronounced subluxation in a group is often mentioned as the “key” to the group, since its correction would effectually loosen the entire group and sometimes partially correct the apparent abnormalities of the rest. It has also been called “major subluxation” to distinguish it from “minor subluxations” which are the others of less importance in the group. This term is not a good one because it suggests what is not always true, namely, that the mechanically greatest subluxation is more potent than any other. Occasionally a slighter subluxation irritates nerves so as to produce a disease more serious and immediately alarming than the condition following the greater displacement.
Example of Group Method
If, in the Cervicals, it is noticed upon gliding downward over the spinous processes that the fifth is badly subluxated and must be adjusted, this fact is held in mind for a moment while the palpater remembers that he cannot adjust and must not list the sixth or fourth. This leaves only the second, third and seventh for consideration, the Atlas having been separately examined. The seventh may best be included in the next group when such a selection is made, so that the palpater need only decide between the second and third Cervical, providing Atlas has not been chosen, as to which, if either, most requires attention. If Atlas has been listed, then there remains instead only the question as to whether the third is or is not subluxated.
In using the Group Method no preference is given to subluxation in any particular direction, save only that below the Cervicals we discriminate against the anteriors, because we cannot adjust them. The Group Method has to do with determining the points of greatest pressure on nerves and this depends upon one’s impression as to the interrelations between all the members of the group. (See [p. 80] under [Subluxations.)]
THE INDIVIDUAL SUBLUXATION
Having prepared our patient, surveyed the entire spine, carefully counted the vertebrae to secure a proper orientation, and specially examined the Atlas, then divided the spine into groups and selected the vertebrae to be adjusted with regard to their degree of malposition, let us confine our attention definitely for the first time to the single vertebra below the Atlas.
Reread “[Direction of Subluxation]” under “[The Record],” [p. 25]. Also read article on “[Subluxations],” [p. 76].
Bear in mind that each subluxation recorded is intended for adjustment and indicate nothing impossible on your record. For instance, an anterior subluxation in the Dorsal region cannot be corrected and should not be recorded for correction.
Remember the six capital letters used in describing a subluxation.