Question
QUESTION: My 20 month old son has had a recent lateral neck x-ray (for adenoids) which has identified a physiological subluxation 4 on 5 and 5 on 6.  I am awaiting a specialist appointment but would like some info beforehand as to whether this is normal for an infant (may grow out of) or is this something which will require specialist treatment?

ANSWER: Iona,

Number one what do YOU mean by physiological subluxation? Who said he had a physiological subluxation? A medical doctor, a Chiropractor?

Number two how was the x-ray taken? Was your son seated or laying on his back (recumbent)? What type of specialist are going to see?

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Lateral neck x-ray   QUESTION: Thank you for your reply.  The doctor that took the x-ray has reported the physiological subluxation as part of his report on the adenoids.  The x-ray was taken whilst he was sitting on my lap. We are waiting for an Ear, nose and throat specialist regarding the adenoids.

Answer
Iona,

From the imaging provided. You can see Atlas (C1) instability (you would need other films to confirm) and the resulting body imbalance of the cervical spine resulting in the findings at C4,5,6.

From the information given it sounds as though your son is having adenoid problems. Your best bet is to find an Upper Cervical Chiropractor someone who specializes in correcting these types of problems.