When we think of spinal curves, we often think of scoliosis, or a sideways curvature. But did you know there is a necessary spinal curve that is actually good? A normal adult, when viewed from the side, should have a slight S-shaped curve to their spine. There are four essential curves to a spine, including two forward curves (in the cervical spine and lumbar spine) and two backward curves (in the thoracic spine and sacral spine). The spine’s primary function includes supporting body weight and protecting the spinal cord. Because this is such an important function, it is imperative to keep the spine in proper alignment so that it is strong and healthy, and this includes taking care of the necessary curves and avoiding improper curvatures of the spine.
Spinal Curves Aid in Developing Correct Posture
We have been told many times throughout our life to “Sit up straight!” We might even say this phrase to our kids every now and then. While being conscious of our posture and actively sitting up straight can help, there is more to it than that. Proper spinal curves will aid in developing better posture and being able to maintain a straight position. Some improper postures include a forward head position, a hunchback position (thoracic kyphosis), and a swayback position (lumbar lordosis). If you or someone you know is experiencing posture problems that leads to discomfort or pain, Franklin chiropractor Dr. Devan Arman can help straighten posture by adjusting the spine and its curves, thus alleviating painful misalignments. An ideal posture is when your ankles, knees, hips, shoulders, and head are in a line on top of each other when you stand. Not only will an adjustment from a Franklin chiropractor that focuses on your spinal curves be able to help with posture, but they can also help with balance, muscle strength, increased range of motion, and muscle stabilization.
How Chiropractic Care Has Helped Others
Improper spinal curvature happen more than we know. In one particular study, a group of 363 people were examined for proper spinal cord curvature. Out of the group, 92 were found to have an abnormal spinal curvature, specifically in the lumbar lordosis (lower section of the spine). Thankfully, chiropractic care focuses on correcting improper spinal curves to bring back proper positioning and decreasing associated pain. For instance, a 47-year-old firefighter complained of persistent lower back pain. He began chiropractic care and was adjusted regularly, focusing on the lumbar spine, and he reported a decrease in lower back pain along with an increase in balance and muscle strength. Furthermore, another case study found that restoring the lumbar lordosis (from a 2 degree curve to a 31 degree curve) increased muscle strength so much that one person’s maximum bench press increased from 245 pounds to 305 pounds in just four months. Maintaining proper spinal curves reduces interference in your spinal cord and entire central nervous system, leading to better body function and optimal health.
For more information on how to achieve proper spinal curves, schedule a consultation with Franklin chiropractor Dr. Devan Arman at Unity Chiropractic.
Sources
Mattox, T.F., Lucente, V., McIntyre, P., Miklos, J.R., Tomezsko, J. “Abnormal Spinal Curvature and Its Relationship to Pelvic Organ Prolapse.” American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 2000 Dec; 183(6): 1381-4. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11120500.
Morningstar, M.W. “Strength gains through lumbar lordosis restoration.”Journal of Chiropractic Medicine, 2003 Aug; 2(4): 137-141. https://www.journalchiromed.com/article/S0899-3467(07)60077-9/fulltext.
Schwab J.M. “Chiropractic management of a 47-year-old firefighter with lumbar disk extrusion.” Journal of Chiropractic Medicine, 2008 Dec; 7(4): 146-154. https://www.journalchiromed.com/article/S1556-3707(08)00091-6/fulltext?code=jcm-site.
Visscher, C.M., de Boer, W. Naeije, M. “The Relationship Between Posture and Curvature of the Cervical Spine.” Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, 1998 Jul-Aug; 21(6): 388-391. www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/9726065.
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