Chiropractic (General)

Shrinking Blind Spot

Charles Masarsky, DC, FICA

The research accomplishments of our chiropractic neurologists are almost completely unknown to the general public.

Everyone has what is known as a "physiological (normal) blind spot" - a place in the field of vision in which small objects seem to "disappear." This blind spot is a consequence of the way the eye is constructed, and is no cause for concern by itself. However, when this blind spot enlarges, it can be a sign of disturbance in the portion of the brain responsible for processing visual signals.

Recently, a chiropractic researcher mapped the size of the physiological blind spot in both eyes of several hundred volunteers. There is usually some asymmetry between the size of the blind spots in the left and right eyes. These measurements were taken before and after chiropractic adjustments to the upper-cervical spine. The results indicate that when subluxations ("pinched nerves") in the upper portion of the neck are adjusted correctly, the size of the larger of the two blind spots will decrease. This shrinking blind spot is consistent with improved function in the portion of the brain called the "visual cortex."

This study1 demonstrates that chiropractic adjustments may assist the body in correcting certain types of subtle brain dysfunction. Ideally, this information will contribute to your ability to make wise health-care decisions and informed referrals.

References

  1. Subluxation and the special senses. In Somatovisceral Aspects of Chiropractic: An Evidence-Based Approach. CS Masarsky, M Todres-Masarsky, editors. Churchill Livingstone, 2001.

Charles Masarsky, DC
Vienna, Virginia
neurofitness@aol.com

June 2003
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