Which finding is consistent with both abnormal movement patterns and misalignment?

The finding of position changes in vertebral segments aligns with both abnormal movement patterns and misalignment. In chiropractic theory, misalignment of the vertebrae can lead to altered biomechanics and poor movement patterns. When vertebrae are misaligned, they can affect the surrounding muscles and joints, leading to abnormal movement patterns as the body compensates for the misalignment. This can create additional strain on the musculoskeletal system and result in a broader range of dysfunction.

In contrast, normal joint play indicates healthy movement and a proper relationship between joint surfaces, while equilibrium in muscle length suggests that the muscles surrounding a joint are balanced, thus unlikely to reflect misalignment. The absence of symptoms may imply that there are no immediate issues present, but it does not speak to the existence of abnormal movement or misalignment. The position changes in vertebral segments, however, serve as a direct indicator of the structural challenges that can lead to further complications in movement and health.