Back Clinic Spinal Hygiene. The spine is the protective housing for the nervous system, a system so powerful that it controls every function in the human body. The nervous system tells your body to breath, tells your heart to beat, tells your arms and legs to move, tells your body when and how to produce new cells and it even has the power to control healing. A damaged or misaligned spine can dramatically interfere with the signals constantly being sent through the nervous system, eventually resulting in bodily pain, internal deterioration and loss of many of the everyday functions we take for granted.
Spinal hygiene is extremely important, yet 89 percent of the world’s population does not realize the importance of maintaining proper alignment of the vertebrae through chiropractic adjustment, as well as protecting the spine from injury through healthy living practices. Instead we neglect our spines. As children we start our lives with tumbles and trips that jar our spines, we grow into adults with poor posture, we lift things that are too heavy, carry overloaded back packs, and we suffer injury through car accidents, sports impacts and stress.
Get in on the health trend of the future-today. Join the growing percentage of the population that enjoys greater health and wellness through regular care of their spines. Talk to your chiropractor today about ways you can improve your spinal hygiene.
Misalignment of the spine can occur due to various factors, causing stress and joint shifting. The spine plays an important role by supporting the body’s weight and maintaining stability, consisting of vertebrae, facet joints, spinal nerves and cord, and intervertebral discs. The surrounding muscles, tissues, and ligaments protect the spinal cord from damage. However, the spine may develop chronic conditions due to axial load pressure, affecting the body. Fortunately, non-surgical and non-invasive treatments can realign the spine and naturally heal the body. This article discusses spinal subluxation and its symptoms, along with the effectiveness of spinal decompression in alleviating subluxation. We utilize and incorporate valuable information about our patients to certified medical providers using non-surgical therapies like spinal decompression to alleviate pain-like symptoms associated with spinal subluxation. We encourage referring patients to associated medical providers based on their findings while supporting that education is a remarkable tool to ask our providers essential questions at the patient’s request. Dr. Jimenez, D.C., comprises this information as an educational service. Disclaimer
What Is Spinal Subluxation?
Are you experiencing muscle tightness in your neck, back, or shoulders? Do you feel pain radiating down your arms or legs? Or are you experiencing muscle aches in different parts of your body? These issues may be caused by spinal subluxation, which research shows can occur in the cervical, thoracic, and lumbar spine sections. A spinal subluxation can be caused by traumatic injuries or normal factors that cause the spinal vertebrae to shift out of alignment. This can cause a lot of discomfort. Studies also reveal that spinal subluxation can interfere with neuron communication between the brain and the rest of the body, leading to unwanted symptoms that affect the functioning of the nervous and organ systems and overall health.
Symptoms Associated With Spinal Subluxation
A spinal subluxation happens when the spine shifts out of alignment due to traumatic or normal factors. According to Dr. Eric Kaplan, D.C, FIAMA, and Dr. Perry Bard, D.C., in their book “The Ultimate Spinal Decompression,” biomechanical instability can cause the surrounding muscles and joints to destabilize or increase antagonist coactivation to stabilize the body. Simple movements like bending, twisting, or turning can cause the surrounding muscles to overstretch and make the body feel unstable. Research studies mentioned that displacement in any part of the spinal skeletal frame could press against the surrounding nerves, which can cause neuron signals to be hardwired and create too much or too little communication with the surrounding muscles and joints. Other symptoms associated with spinal subluxation include:
Muscle tightness around the back
Pain and discomfort
Headaches
Limited mobility
Tingling sensations
Digestive and respiratory issues
Low energy
Thoracic Spine Pain- Video
Do you experience pain or discomfort when twisting, turning, or bending? Have you felt muscle aches, pain, or tenderness in your back, or do you feel unsteady when walking? These symptoms may be caused by spinal misalignment or subluxation. Subluxation occurs as pressure compresses spinal discs, causing vertebrae to shift from their normal position. A subluxation can occur in different spine sections, resulting in overlapping risks. This causes pain in various body parts, known as referred pain. Fortunately, non-surgical treatments like chiropractic care and spinal decompression can reduce the effects of subluxation, realign the spine, and promote natural healing for muscles, ligaments, and joints. The video above explains thoracic spine pain symptoms and how manual and mechanical manipulation can alleviate pain-like symptoms, rehydrate spinal discs, and kick-start the body’s natural healing process.
If you suffer from muscle pain associated with spinal subluxation, you can alleviate the associated pain symptoms in several ways. One option is spinal decompression, a non-surgical treatment shown to effectively reduce residual pain and disability, improve range of motion, and modulate neural mechanical sensitivity, as research studies mentioned. Through gentle spine stretching, spinal decompression helps realign the body and allows spinal discs to return to their original position. This, in turn, will enable nutrients, fluids, and oxygenated blood to rehydrate the discs and promote natural healing. For added benefits, spinal decompression can be combined with additional treatments, such as physical therapy and chiropractic care. Best of all, it is a safe and non-invasive treatment allowing individuals to be more mindful of how they move their bodies.
Conclusion
Spinal misalignment or subluxation can occur over time due to traumatic injuries or normal factors. This can cause the spinal vertebrae to shift out of alignment, leading to referred muscle pain and chronic issues that can eventually result in disability. However, non-surgical and non-invasive treatments like spinal decompression use mechanical traction to gently stretch the spine and realign it, releasing the body’s natural healing process. Additionally, non-surgical treatments like spinal decompression help individuals be more mindful of their bodies and prevent new injuries from occurring. Combining spinal decompression with other therapies can promote health and wellness in many individuals.
References
Kaplan, E., & Bard, P. (2023). The Ultimate Spinal Decompression. JETLAUNCH.
Body balance is essential for walking, tying shoelaces, picking up objects, etc. Balance is an acquired skill that the body develops in response to different activities and surroundings. Everyone can benefit from improving and maintaining their balance muscles regardless of age. Balance exercises condition and strengthen the core muscles. Balance training helps improve posture and stability; athletes find it provides increased agility and added power; seniors utilize it to prevent injuries and maintain mobility, and fitness enthusiasts use it to improve workouts. Injury Medical Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Clinic provide whole-body realignment, rehabilitation, postural and balance training, and nutritional advice.
Balance Exercises
Being able to move around efficiently requires healthy postural alignment and balance. The systems responsible for balance can be affected by the following:
Gradual changes brought on by aging.
Back problems.
Foot problems.
Injury.
Side effects from medications.
Arthritis.
Stroke.
Parkinson’s disease.
Multiple sclerosis.
However, it was found that all responded well to exercises designed to improve balance.
Definition
Balance is the ability to control the body in space and distribute weight evenly to maintain uprightness. There are two types.
Dynamic Balance
The ability to remain stable while performing movements or actions that require displacing or moving the body.
Individuals use this type of balance each time the body takes a step in any direction.
Dynamic balance is required when the body is in motion, like walking.
A healthy dynamic balance is essential for the body’s ability to react to sudden changes.
Static Balance
The ability to maintain a stationary position during movements like bending, twisting, reaching, and swaying around the axis of the body.
Both types are essential and can be improved with targeted exercises.
Benefits
Everyone can benefit from balance exercises and can help at different stages of life and fitness levels.
General Public
Balance training:
Teaches the body to use the core for stabilization.
Creates muscular balance.
Improves neuromuscular coordination and communication between the brain and muscles.
Individuals can start incorporating balance exercises into everyday routines. A few ways to do this include:
When picking up an object, reach over to pick them up on one leg, with the other lifting straight into the air behind to engage the abs.
Sit on a stability ball at work, school, or when watching TV.
Stand on one foot while engaged in static balance activities like washing dishes, brushing teeth, etc., and alternate the feet.
Athletes
Proprioceptive training is used with athletes for rehabilitation and prevention of injuries. Proprioception is the sense of body position.
Practicing balance exercises increases the sense of control and awareness of the muscles and joints and how they function when in motion.
Balance training increases power because the individual learns to use their center of gravity more efficiently.
A stronger and more active core helps to increase jump height, throwing, swinging, shifting, and running.
Seniors
Seniors can use balance exercise programs to improve stability for falling prevention and injuries.
Exercises
Below are basic instructions for the following balance exercises:
Tree Pose
Tree pose can be done on the floor, a mat, or Bosu. It strengthens the ankles, improves balance, and engages the core.
Stand with feet together, spine tall and straight, and arms outstretched.
If using a BOSU, use either the ball or the flat side.
Gradually lift the left foot to the side of the calf and balance on the right foot.
Gradually lift arms overhead to make the branches.
Hold for 30 seconds, then switch to the other leg.
Single Leg Deadlift
This exercise strengthens the hamstrings and glutes, works on balance, and activates the abdominal wall. It can be done with or without weights like dumbells.
Stand on the floor with feet together.
Place most of the weight onto the right foot.
Stare at a focal point in front and on the floor
Slowly lower the torso to the ground while lifting the left leg behind.
Keep the spine neutral and reach the hands toward the floor.
Stop when the back is parallel to the floor.
Don’t tighten or stiffen the right knee but keep it moveable.
Squeeze the hamstrings, glutes, and abs while slowly returning to an upright position.
Lie on your back and extend your arms and legs toward the ceiling.
Pull the abdominals in toward the midline.
Lower the right leg and extend the left arm back.
Return to the starting position and repeat with the opposite arm and leg.
Keep switching sides until the set is complete.
The Chiropractic Approach
References
Bruijn, Sjoerd M, and Jaap H van Dieën. “Control of human gait stability through foot placement.” Journal of the Royal Society, Interface vol. 15,143 (2018): 20170816. doi:10.1098/rsif.2017.0816
Dunsky, Ayelet, et al. “Balance Performance Is Task Specific in Older Adults.” BioMed research international vol. 2017 (2017): 6987017. doi:10.1155/2017/6987017
Feldman, Anatol G. “The Relationship Between Postural and Movement Stability.” Advances in experimental medicine and biology vol. 957 (2016): 105-120. doi:10.1007/978-3-319-47313-0_6
Hlaing, Su Su et al. “Effects of core stabilization exercise and strengthening exercise on proprioception, balance, muscle thickness and pain-related outcomes in patients with subacute nonspecific low back pain: a randomized controlled trial.” BMC musculoskeletal disorders vol. 22,1 998. 30 Nov. 2021, doi:10.1186/s12891-021-04858-6
Kim, Beomryong, and Jongeun Yim. “Core Stability and Hip Exercises Improve Physical Function and Activity in Patients with Nonspecific Low Back Pain: A Randomized Controlled Trial.” The Tohoku Journal of experimental medicine vol. 251,3 (2020): 193-206. doi:10.1620/tjem.251.193
Prado, Erick Tadeu et al. “Hatha yoga on body balance.” International Journal of Yoga vol. 7,2 (2014): 133-7. doi:10.4103/0973-6131.133893
Thomas, Ewan, et al. “Physical activity programs for balance and fall prevention in elderly: A systematic review.” Medicine vol. 98,27 (2019): e16218. doi:10.1097/MD.0000000000016218
Spring allergies are reactions by an individual’s immune system to flowering buds, blooming trees, pet dander, weeds, etc. When coming into contact with the allergen, the immune system’s reaction can inflame the skin, sinuses, airways, or digestive system. The severity of allergies varies from person to person. The spine and brain communicate with various body parts, including those that affect the immune system and how the body reacts to allergens. Chiropractic adjustments for allergy treatment can help regulate histamine and cortisol levels and offer spring allergy tips for prevention.
Spring Allergy Tips
An allergy occurs when the body’s immune system sees a substance as harmful and overreacts (inflammation). The immune system produces substances known as antibodies. A lack of communication between the spine, brain, and other parts of the body can lead to lower immunity meaning the body has a harder time reacting to stressors.
Symptoms
Symptoms vary, but the most common include:
Itchy, red, and watery eyes
Nasal congestion
Sneezing
Runny nose
Itching nose
Post-nasal drip
Coughing
The recommended way to determine whether or not seasonal allergies are causing symptoms is to visit a primary care physician and undergo allergy testing. A physician may recommend an allergist for further evaluation to identify specific allergies.
Prevention
Reduce exposure to triggers
Try to stay indoors on windy days.
Wind and dry air can make allergy symptoms worse.
Closing windows can help keep pollen from blowing inside.
Remove clothes worn outside and shower to rinse pollen from your skin and hair.
Wear a dust mask when lawn mowing, weed pulling, and doing other chores.
Don’t hang laundry outside; pollen can stick to clothes, sheets, and towels.
Seasonal allergy signs and symptoms can flare up with a high pollen count. Certain steps can help reduce the exposure:
Check local TV, radio, or the internet for pollen forecasts and levels.
If high pollen is forecasted, take allergy medications before symptoms begin.
Close doors and windows when pollen counts are high.
Try to avoid outdoor activity when pollen counts are highest.
Indoor Air Quality
Various products can help remove allergens from the air in the home:
Use air conditioning in the house and car when applicable.
Use high-efficiency filters and follow regular maintenance schedules for heating and air conditioning.
Vacuum all floors regularly with a cleaner that has a HEPA filter.
Chiropractic
Chiropractic treatment is highly effective in relieving allergy symptoms and even stopping allergies at their source. The treatments restore balance, so the body is ready to combat allergies. When the spine is out of alignment (which can occur from the coughing and sneezing), it impacts the nervous system, leading to various problems, including allergies and immune system malfunction. A chiropractor can relieve the stress on the nervous system by realigning the spine, taking the pressure off nerves, and allowing the immune system to function at optimal levels. And it makes it easier for the body to fight off infections while recognizing allergens as harmless.
Food Allergies, Hypersensitivity, and Intolerances
References
Balon, Jeffrey W, and Silvano A Mior. “Chiropractic care in asthma and allergy.” Annals of allergy, asthma & immunology: official publication of the American College of Allergy, Asthma, & Immunology vol. 93,2 Suppl 1 (2004): S55-60. doi:10.1016/s1081-1206(10)61487-1
Bruton, Anne, et al. “Physiotherapy breathing retraining for asthma: a randomized controlled trial.” The Lancet. Respiratory medicine vol. 6,1 (2018): 19-28. doi:10.1016/S2213-2600(17)30474-5
Bruurs, Marjolein L J et al. “The effectiveness of physiotherapy in patients with asthma: a systematic review of the literature.” Respiratory medicine vol. 107,4 (2013): 483-94. doi:10.1016/j.rmed.2012.12.017
Jaber, Raja. “Respiratory and allergic diseases: from upper respiratory tract infections to asthma.” Primary care vol. 29,2 (2002): 231-61. doi:10.1016/s0095-4543(01)00008-2
Wu, Shan Shan et al. “Rhinitis: The Osteopathic Modular Approach.” The Journal of the American Osteopathic Association vol. 120,5 (2020): 351-358. doi:10.7556/jaoa.2020.054
The various muscles, tendons, and ligaments inside the body surround the skeletal joint to provide movement and multiple actions to allow the host to be mobile. The body also has various muscle groups, with soft tissues surrounding the vital organs to help support the body. Since the human body is mobile, many factors can cause issues to the body’s host and lead to chronic overlapping risk profiles that can correlate with pain in the joints and muscle tissues. When these factors are causing pain in the musculoskeletal system, various treatment techniques can help reduce the pain-like symptoms and help restore the body. MET, or muscle energy technique, is one of the different treatment techniques used by pain specialists like chiropractors, massage therapists, physical therapists, and occupational therapists on many individuals with musculoskeletal pain. Today’s article looks at the musculoskeletal system, how the issues affect the muscles, and how muscle energy technique is utilized to reduce muscle pain associated with the musculoskeletal system. We mention our patients to certified medical providers that provide available therapy treatments like MET (muscle energy techniques) for individuals suffering from chronic conditions associated with the musculoskeletal system. We encourage each patient when it is appropriate by referring them to associated medical providers based on their diagnosis or needs. We understand and accept that education is a marvelous way when asking our providers crucial questions at the patient’s request and acknowledgment. Dr. Alex Jimenez, D.C., uses this information as an educational service. Disclaimer
An Overview Of The Musculoskeletal System
The musculoskeletal system plays a huge role in the body, consisting of numerous muscle groups, tissues, ligaments, joints, and organs controlled by the central nervous system. The central nervous system provides the motor-sensory function to the musculoskeletal system, allowing the body to rest and move around. What the central nervous system does to the musculoskeletal system, according to research studies, it is revealed that these two systems have a relationship with each other as they are interconnected. Besides the various muscle groups that help surround the skeletal joints and provide mobility to the body, we will look at the connective tissue associated with the facial system and how muscle activity is affected by chronic issues.
Connective Tissue & The Fascial System
Regarding the musculoskeletal system, the connective tissue is one of the single abundant materials that allow each muscle group to be connected to its specific body region. The connective tissue comprises the body’s bones, muscles, blood vessels, and lymph nodes while embracing all the soft tissues and organs. The body’s connective tissue also works with the fascial system, giving the body the fundamental requirements. The fascial system is the structural form of the body since the fascial system is composed of connective tissues. With these two systems connecting and working together, it allows the muscles in the body to respond to various actions thrown at in different environments. The fascia web allows all muscle tissues to exist in isolation and interwoven with other structures to provide mobility.
Muscle Activity
Everything from the connective tissues to the fascia is involved in muscle activity in the musculoskeletal system. When the various muscles start to work with the body’s most movement, it is combined with one or more muscles acting as the prime mover or antagonist, allowing synergistic muscles to assist and contract simultaneously. The various muscle groups in the musculoskeletal system allow different actions, often repeated, to become stabilizing or antagonizing muscles. A great example is looking at the upper and lower extremities of the body. The upper extremities allow the arms, neck, head, and shoulders to have mobility when it comes to bending, twisting, and turning. While the lower extremities allow the hips, low back, legs, and feet to allow, stability and flexion to make the body move. However, these muscle groups can be affected by multiple factors that can affect muscle activity and lead to overlapping soft tissue pain profiles.
Issues Affect Muscle Activity
Since the body is a complex machine, different environmental factors can affect muscle groups in various ways and cause numerous pain issues. Now when it comes to environmental factors, many negative influences do play a role in affecting the musculoskeletal system in three categories:
Biomechanical: trauma, overusing the muscles, congenital, etc.
Biochemical: endocrine imbalances, inflammation, ischemia, nutritional deficiency, etc.
Psychosocial: anxiety, depression, chronic stress, etc.
These influences can cause the muscles to tense up and restrict blood flow, causing pain and trigger points to form in the muscle fibers and making a person feel miserable. Fortunately, therapeutic techniques allow the muscles to relax and release the tension that the person is feeling.
MET(Muscle Energy Technique)-Video
What Is Muscle Energy Technique?
When people feel stressed, and their muscles become tight, they can develop pain-like symptoms that correlate with chronic issues. Fortunately, a revolution has taken place that many pain specialists like chiropractors and massage therapists take place when it comes to manipulative therapy through a technique known as MET or muscle energy technique. According to research studies, MET is an osteopathic manipulative medicine designed to improve the body’s musculoskeletal function. This technique helps target soft tissues and contributes to joint mobilization. The muscle energy technique allows the tight muscles and fascia to be stretched, improving circulation and lymphatic flow since chiropractors or doctors of chiropractic care utilize spinal manipulation to realign the body and restore joint function.
Additional studies also reveal that MET combined with chiropractic care allows pain reduction in the muscles and can increase the body’s range of motion. This technique is essential for chronic and acute low back pain, trigger point pain, and other musculoskeletal dysfunctions associated with environmental factors.
The Various Stretching Techniques Of MET
The main objective of MET is to induce relaxation of hypertonic musculature, which also stretches the muscles to reduce pain-like symptoms. Now many treatments like chiropractic care can combine different techniques to reduce pain and restore mobility to the individual. With MET, various stretching techniques can allow chiropractors to stretch the tense muscles while restoring the range of motion. Some of the stretching techniques that pain specialists use include:
Facilitated stretching: Allows chiropractors and massage therapists to use strong/light isometric contractions to treat the muscles and be actively stretched. Reduces muscle cramps, tissue damage, or pain to the affected muscle group while utilizing breathing techniques and producing sufficient post-isometric relaxation.
Active-isolated stretching: Allows chiropractors and massage therapists to stretch the affected muscle actively while using precise localization to allow the affected muscle to receive a specific extension. This allows the muscles to relax through a short repetitive contraction and retraction to increase oxygenated blood flow. This stretching technique prevents the activation of the myotatic stretch reflex on the affected muscle.
Static stretching: In yoga, the individual can maintain a position for a few minutes to allow deep breathing and slowly release contracted and tensed muscle tissues to relax. This stretch also releases myofascial trigger points from the affected muscle groups.
Ballistic stretching: This stretch provides a series of rapid, bouncing movements that allow the short muscles in the body to be lengthened rapidly.
Conclusion
When the body encounters environmental factors that can cause pain-like symptoms to the host, it can develop into pain and other chronic conditions affecting a person’s life. Many techniques like MET (muscle energy technique) allow the musculoskeletal system to stretch out tense muscles and help restore mobility to the body. Pain specialists like chiropractors can incorporate various MET stretching techniques combined with spinal manipulation to restore the body to its original state.
References
Chaitow, Leon, and Judith Walker DeLany. Clinical Applications of Neuromuscular Techniques. Churchill Livingstone, 2003.
Murphy, Andrew C, et al. “Structure, Function, and Control of the Human Musculoskeletal Network.” PLoS Biology, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 18 Jan. 2018, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5773011/.
Thomas, Ewan, et al. “The Efficacy of Muscle Energy Techniques in Symptomatic and Asymptomatic Subjects: A Systematic Review.” Chiropractic & Manual Therapies, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 27 Aug. 2019, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6710873/.
Waxenbaum, Joshua A, and Myro Lu. “Physiology, Muscle Energy – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf.” In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL), StatPearls Publishing, 25 July 2022, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK559029/.
Getting healthy sleep can be difficult when dealing with back problems or recovering from surgery. It can be difficult, if not impossible, to get and stay comfortable long enough to sleep on a regular flat mattress. It is worth considering an adjustable bed as an alternative. Because of their lifestyle and health benefits, these beds are growing in popularity to meet an individual’s spine, posture, and sleeping needs.
Adjustable Bed
An adjustable bed can raise and lower a mattress’s orientation to different angles, allowing the upper body to rest at a slight incline, such as 30 to 45 degrees, with support under the knees as they bend at a slight angle. The body can feel better in an inclined or semi-upright position rather than lying flat. Individuals with back or neck problems or joint conditions like shoulder arthritis have reported feeling better in this position.
Features
The number of adjustments varies from model to model. Available features include:
Adjustable firmness for the low back/lumbar area.
Adjustments may be made by remote control.
Some offer massage options.
Zero gravity – NASA invented the zero gravity position to reduce pressure on astronauts during takeoff. In this position, the head and knees are raised above the heart, making the body feel weightless.
Adjustable beds are sold in single, queen, and king sizes.
Split queen and king sizes allow the settings to be customized for each side of the bed.
Benefits
Snoring
Over 90 million Americans snore during sleep.
The main cause of snoring is the blockage of the windpipe while sleeping, which can be caused by several factors, but most commonly by the weight of the neck on the windpipe, preventing the individual from breathing properly.
An adjustable bed allows for an inclined position, decreasing the pressure on the windpipe, reducing snoring, and allowing for a more relaxing sleep.
Asthma
Asthma can disrupt healthy sleep and make breathing difficult at night.
COPD and chronic lung conditions can worsen over time, impacting sleep quality.
Lying flat often irritates these lung conditions.
Sleeping with the head and feet in a raised position makes breathing easier.
Posture
Unhealthy posture causes soreness, stiffness, tightness, headaches, and other health issues.
Adjustable beds provide postural support to the spine and can improve posture and increase overall health.
Back Problems
80% of individuals deal with various back issues and symptoms.
Adjustable beds provide support and alignment to the spine by allowing the mattress to conform to the body’s contours.
This can prevent sciatica, enabling the nerves to relax and rest without added body pressure.
For those with sciatica, pain can be alleviated by using a raised leg position to take the stress off the nerves and increase circulation.
Lowering the bed up and down can help stretch the back.
Digestion
An adjustable bed can help with digestion issues.
An inclined position prevents indigestion and acid reflux and helps the body process food more efficiently.
A six-inch raise is recommended to increase digestion.
Individuals who go to bed on a full stomach should raise the incline as there is more digestive activity.
Inflammation, Swelling, and Injury Recovery
When dealing with neuromusculoskeletal injuries, doctors often recommend elevating the injured part of the body to speed up recovery.
An adjustable bed lifts or raises the mattress and elevates the limbs while maintaining a neutral/natural sleeping position.
Pregnancy
Physical and hormonal changes during pregnancy can cause back discomfort symptoms, sciatica, circulation issues, and swelling.
Pregnant women can use the zero gravity position to reduce swelling, alleviate back pain, and improve circulation.
This position also makes back sleeping safer for the mom and baby.
Individuals should research all the styles and features available to find what works for them.
Ten Benefits
References
Ancuelle, Victor, et al. “Effects of an adapted mattress in musculoskeletal pain and sleep quality in institutionalized elders.” Sleep science (Sao Paulo, Brazil) vol. 8,3 (2015): 115-20. doi:10.1016/j.slsci.2015.08.004
Söderback, I, and A Lassfolk. “The usefulness of four methods of assessing the benefits of electrically adjustable beds in relation to their costs.” International journal of technology assessment in health care vol. 9,4 (1993): 573-80. doi:10.1017/s0266462300005493
Tetley, M. “Instinctive sleeping and resting postures: an anthropological and zoological approach to the treatment of low back and joint pain.” BMJ (Clinical research ed.) vol. 321,7276 (2000): 1616-8. doi:10.1136/bmj.321.7276.1616
Verhaert, Vincent, et al. “Ergonomics in bed design: the effect of spinal alignment on sleep parameters.” Ergonomics vol. 54,2 (2011): 169-78. doi:10.1080/00140139.2010.538725
Unhealthy posture and slouching incorrectly position the body unnaturally, adding chronic strain on the muscles and ligaments. For example, when sitting or standing at a workstation, individuals start to relax by slumping forward because it feels comfortable; however, they don’t realize that their shoulders are hunching over, and their neck is in an awkward forward position. For every inch the head moves forward, its weight on the neck and upper back muscles increases by 10 pounds. Individuals that stay in this position for a long time often experience neck soreness, tension in the shoulder muscles, and low back discomfort. Chiropractic care, massage, and decompression therapy can realign the spine to its natural position and train individuals to maintain a healthy posture.
Slouching
Posture is the body’s position in space, the relationship of the body’s parts, head, torso, and limbs to each other. Maintaining the natural lumbar curve in the low back is essential to preventing posture-related discomfort symptoms. This natural curve works as a shock absorber, helping to distribute weight along the length of the spine. The most common causes for slouching posture are:
Repetitive motions or tasks can cause physical and mental fatigue, causing individuals to relax their core muscles.
Combined with the repetitiveness, individuals also begin implementing unhealthy movements because it makes the job easier.
Often individuals want to finish their work tasks, and even though they can feel their muscles and body stiffening and tightening up, they continue to work through the discomfort and don’t take a quick break to move around and stretch.
Stressful situations can cause muscle tension.
Carrying heavy bags, purses, backpacks, etc.
Weight fluctuation.
Pregnancy.
Spine
Muscles move the skeletal system and provide resistance against movement.
The musculoskeletal system comprises soft tissue structures that provide active and passive spinal stabilization.
The spine has natural curves to distribute weight/loads evenly.
The cervical and lumbar spine have a lordosis or forward curve.
The thoracic spine and sacrum have a kyphosis or backward curve.
They help to mitigate the forces exerted on passive stabilizing structures like the ligaments, joint capsules, and intervertebral discs.
A prolonged seated or standing position fatigues the muscles that stabilize the spine from the forces of gravity and body weight. When the tired muscles no longer provide stability, the spine must rely on the passive structures of the musculoskeletal system for support. Without the support, the spine gradually loses its natural cervical and lumbar curves and becomes more kyphotic or slouched. Slouching can provide relaxation and relief to the fatigued muscles; however, repetitive or prolonged stress to the passive structures can result in discomfort and injury to those tissues. This is how nerve compression, ligament inflammation, and disc herniations start.
Symptoms of Unhealthy Posture
Head that leans forward or backward.
Headaches.
Jaw pain.
Poor circulation.
Rounded shoulders.
A decline in breathing efficiency.
Muscle fatigue – Certain muscles can change in length, becoming short and tense or long and weak.
The advantages of practicing healthy posture include the following:
Prevents abnormal wear on the joints.
Lessens stress on the ligaments.
Prevents muscle strain and fatigue.
Prevents the spine from becoming misaligned.
Prevents back aches and soreness.
Reduces the risk of chronic diseases or conditions.
Helps maintain fitness and overall health.
Chiropractic Realignment
Our approach starts by correcting the physical problems caused by slouching, which involves chiropractic adjustments, therapeutic massage, and non-surgical decompression therapy. The objective is to fix the root cause to ensure that the treatment lasts and maintains neuromusculoskeletal health.
Examination
The initial assessment looks at an individual’s posture and a physical evaluation to identify the root cause.
When muscles become weak, over or underused, or suffer injury, others tighten or tense up.
A chiropractor looks at how an individual stands from behind and from the sides, noting issues like uneven shoulders, arched back, twisted pelvis, or other symmetry issues.
Treatment
Massage will increase circulation and reduce tension.
Muscle release and relaxation for any overactive muscles.
A chiropractor will perform slow joint movements.
Targeted stretches and strength exercises will correct imbalances, maintain flexibility, and strengthen the core muscles.
Postural training will help individuals learn to use proper body mechanics and to listen to their bodies.
Impact of Stress
References
Defloor, T, and M H Grypdonck. “Sitting posture and prevention of pressure ulcers.” Applied nursing research: ANR vol. 12,3 (1999): 136-42. doi:10.1016/s0897-1897(99)80045-7
Fortner, Miles O et al. “Treating ‘slouchy’ (hyperkyphosis) posture with chiropractic biophysics®: a case report utilizing a multimodal mirror image® rehabilitation program.” Journal of physical therapy science vol. 29,8 (2017): 1475-1480. doi:10.1589/jpts.29.1475
Katzman, Wendy B et al. “Age-related hyperkyphosis: its causes, consequences, and management.” The Journal of orthopedic and sports physical therapy vol. 40,6 (2010): 352-60. doi:10.2519/jospt.2010.3099
Korakakis, Vasileios, et al. “Physiotherapist perceptions of optimal sitting and standing posture.” Musculoskeletal science & practice vol. 39 (2019): 24-31. doi:10.1016/j.msksp.2018.11.004
Snijders, Chris J et al. “Effects of slouching and muscle contraction on the strain of the iliolumbar ligament.” Manual therapy vol. 13,4 (2008): 325-33. doi:10.1016/j.math.2007.03.001
Yoong, Nicole Kah Mun et al. “Commercial Postural Devices: A Review.” Sensors (Basel, Switzerland) vol. 19,23 5128. 23 Nov. 2019, doi:10.3390/s19235128
Chiropractic care has a powerful therapeutic effect on the body’s systems. This includes the nervous, muscular, skeletal, and lymphatic. The lymphatic system is a part of the immune system. It circulates lymph, a fluid comprised of white blood cells that support the immune system, proteins, and fats. The lymphatic system collects toxins, moves waste, and protects the body from foreign invaders. Together with the immune system, the lymphatic system keeps the body balanced. However, imbalances occur due to misalignments, subluxations, compressed nerves, chronic conditions, and injuries. Chiropractic care, massage, and decompression therapy can help mobilize stuck or misaligned joints, reduce muscular tension, alleviate nerve inflammation and discomfort, and restore optimal function.
Spinal Lymphatic Detox
Lymphatic System
The lymphatic system is a network throughout the body. The system drains lymph fluid from the blood vessels into the tissues and empties it back into the bloodstream through the lymph nodes. The main functions of the system include the following:
Regulates fluid levels in the body.
Activates when bacteria or viruses enter.
Manages and removes cancer cells or cell byproducts that could result in disease or disorders.
Absorbs some of the fats from the intestine.
The lymph nodes and other structures like the spleenand thymushouse specialized white blood cells called lymphocytes. These are ready to go and can rapidly multiply and release antibodies when bacteria, viruses, and other stimuli, enter the body.
Fluid Balance
The blood in the vessels is under constant pressure. Nutrients, fluids, and certain cells need to circulate throughout the body to supply the tissues and maintain the system’s defense. The lymphatic system:
Removes all fluids and contents that leak into the tissues.
Eliminates waste products formed in the tissues.
Eliminates bacteria that enter through the skin.
The digestive and respiratory systems are lined with lymphatic tissue because the systems are exposed. The most important sites are the tonsils, the intestinal region, and the appendix. Lymph nodes are the filters. Viruses and cancer cells get trapped and destroyed in the lymph nodes. More lymphocytes are produced when an infection is present, which is why the nodes experience swelling. When the lymphatic system does not drain fluids from the tissues properly, the tissues swell and can cause symptoms of discomfort. If the swelling is only for a short period, it is called edema. If it lasts more than three months, it is called lymphoedema.
Symptoms of Unhealthy Circulation
Unhealthy circulation can include the following symptoms:
Fatigue
Concentration problems
Cold hands or feet
Swelling
Muscle cramps
Numbness
Tingling
Stinging
Throbbing
Development of ulcers on the feet, ankles, and legs.
Chiropractic Care
A chiropractic spinal lymphatic detoxtreatment releases stagnant fluid collected in the joints, muscles, and tissues. A personalized treatment plan will consist of massage therapy to increase circulation, release and relax the muscles and nerves, chiropractic to realign the body, decompression to open the spine, stretching techniques to improve flexibility, and nutritional guidance to support optimal circulation. The benefits include:
Discomfort and pain relief.
Stress and anxiety relief.
Balanced and realigned body.
Relaxed muscles.
Helps with allergy symptoms.
Detoxes bacteria along the spine.
Lymphatic Anatomy
References
Dmochowski, Jacek P et al. “Computational Modeling of Deep Tissue Heating by an Automatic Thermal Massage Bed: Predicting the Effects on Circulation.” Frontiers in medical technology vol. 4 925554. 14 Jun. 2022, doi:10.3389/fmedt.2022.925554
Majewski-Schrage, Tricia, and Kelli Snyder. “The Effectiveness of Manual Lymphatic Drainage in Patients With Orthopedic Injuries.” Journal of sport rehabilitation vol. 25,1 (2016): 91-7. doi:10.1123/jsr.2014-0222
Mihara, Makoto et al. “Combined conservative treatment and lymphatic venous anastomosis for severe lower limb lymphedema with recurrent cellulitis.” Annals of vascular surgery vol. 29,6 (2015): 1318.e11-5. doi:10.1016/j.avsg.2015.01.037
Mortimer, Peter S, and Stanley G Rockson. “New developments in clinical aspects of lymphatic disease.” The Journal of clinical investigation vol. 124,3 (2014): 915-21. doi:10.1172/JCI71608
Weerapong, Pornratshanee et al. “The mechanisms of massage and effects on performance, muscle recovery and injury prevention.” Sports medicine (Auckland, N.Z.) vol. 35,3 (2005): 235-56. doi:10.2165/00007256-200535030-00004
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