ICA Releases Contemporary Definition of Vertebral Subluxation to Support Unity, Clarity, and Scientific Alignment in the Chiropractic Profession 

Falls Church, VA — The International Chiropractors Association (ICA) is proud to announce the release of a contemporary definition of vertebral subluxation, following an extensive and collaborative effort within the profession. The new definition is: 

“A chiropractic vertebral subluxation is a potentially reversible or preventable alteration of spinal motion segments from normal alignment or function associated with adverse neurophysiological activity that can be connected to whole person health.” 

This milestone represents a step forward in unifying the profession around language that supports clinical relevance, scientific clarity, and policy alignment. 

“I was so honored to chair a committee that was created by Dr. Selina Sigafoose Jackson to develop a contemporary definition of subluxation that would be accepted by the majority of the profession,” said ICA President Dr. Joe Betz. “It was a more difficult project than anticipated, but I believe the committee produced a definition that is perfectly worded to satisfy the researchers, academics, practitioners and policy makers. 

“The new contemporary definition of subluxation is vital because it aligns chiropractic care with current scientific understanding, enhancing credibility within healthcare. It provides a clearer framework for patient care, research, and communication, strengthening the profession’s role in modern health systems.” 

The definition is the result of months of deliberation, review of scientific literature, and consultation across diverse sectors of the chiropractic community. It is designed to support greater understanding and consistency in chiropractic education, clinical practice, research, and health policy. 

As chiropractic continues to advocate for non-drug, non-surgical approaches to health, the ICA believes this modernized definition will help chiropractors communicate and contextualize vertebral subluxation in today’s healthcare landscape. 

For more information, visit www.chiropractic.org.

A chiropractic vertebral subluxation is a potentially reversible or preventable alteration of spinal motion segments from normal alignment or function associated with adverse neurophysiological activity that can be connected to whole person health.

Media Contact: 
Beth Clay, Executive Director 
bclay@chiropractic.org 
(703) 528-5000