Philosophy

A healthy spine should perform 3 basic functions.

• It should protect your delicate nervous system within it.

• It should allow your body to bend, shift and twist with ease

• It should support your body against the constant compressive force of gravity.

 One of the most important functions of your spine is to protect the delicate nervous system. Your nervous system controls and regulates all functions of your body. When your spinal column bends, twists or shifts so does the spinal cord within it. Many times due to trauma, repetitive motion, postures, or birth defects the spine can't return to its normal alignment. What happens to the spine also happens to the spinal cord and nerves. This can affect your nervous systems ability to send and receive nervous impulses from the body and brain. These pathological changes in the spine, spinal cord and nerves can lead to nervous system dysfunction. Numbness, weakness and organ dysfunction are some common symptoms. If your nervous system doesn't function properly, your body will struggle to function at its best.

 The next function of your spine is to support the body against the constant compressive force of gravity. The less efficient your spine is at supporting your body, the more you will tend to hurt. When your spine does not support your body effectively there is increased stress and strain, as shown in biomechanical studies, upon the bones, discs and ligaments of your spine.

Over time, abnormal stresses and strains can lead to increased pain and decay (arthritis, disc degeneration, herniaions, etc.).  Individuals that cannot stand or sit still for long periods of time because of pain or discomfort, often times have a spine that inefficiently supports their body.

Another function of your spine is to allow your body to bend, turn, shift and twist with ease. If your spine loses its normal alignment, all movements become more difficult. Your spine works synergistically with the supporting and stabilizing muscles of the body. When your spine isn't doing its job your muscles have to work harder. This can lead to muscles that are constantly tight, tender, achy and stiff. Improving the alignment of your spine and posture can help you feel and function better.

For a more complete list of symptoms associated with abnormal posture and spinal alignment, click here.