What does "Subluxation complex" refer to?

The term "subluxation complex" refers specifically to a dysfunction that can lead to issues in nerve transmission. This concept is central to chiropractic care, where practitioners focus on the relationships between the spine, the nervous system, and overall health. A subluxation complex involves misalignments or functional impairments of the vertebrae of the spine, which can compromise the function of nerves and disrupt the normal flow of nerve impulses. This disruption may result in pain, altered motion, and other systemic effects, emphasizing the significance of restoring proper alignment and function in the spine to promote overall health and well-being.

The other options refer to distinct concepts that do not encapsulate the definition of subluxation complex. For example, infections in the skeletal system and types of spinal surgery pertain to entirely different medical conditions and interventions, while joint pain can be a symptom resulting from various issues, including but not limited to subluxation, making it too broad to define the specific term in question.