Spinal health is a vital part of complete body health.  Your spine has a direct relationship with your Nervous System. When your spine is aligned correctly, you will notice many significant benefits for other parts of your body as well.  It is important to strengthen and improve your spinal health for proper Nervous System function, along with added body movement and better overall posture and balance.

Increased Movement

Movement comes from the spine.  Our arms, hips, shoulder and legs are all interconnected with the spine.  Proper care of the spine, including flexibility and strength, will increase body movement and allow your body to move in a smarter, more efficient way.   Increasing your flexibility along the spine will increase your overall motion and movement.  Also, flexible muscles and tissue around the spine can reduce your risk of injury. Stretching is crucial for flexibility in the tissue and joints around the spine.  Be sure to stretch before any physical activity so that you can prepare your muscles for a workout.  Stretching after a workout is also important to avoid soreness, stiffness, or possible injury.  Stretch daily for added flexibility and spinal movement. Proper spinal movement is crucial for a healthy functioning Nervous System.

Good Posture & Proper Balance

Correct alignment of the spine is essential for whole body health.  Because your spine is connected to the central nervous system, a healthy spine can improve overall health.  It will also improve your posture and balance.  It is important to recognize what it feels like to be in the Neutral Spine Position when your skull, rib cage, and pelvis are all in proper alignment.  It’s more than just sitting up straight; it’s imagining your head being connected through your spine down to the pelvis so that all three curves of the spine, lumbar, thoracic, and cervical, are in alignment.  By practicing a relaxed, neutral spine position, you guarantee your body has more stability and control.  When your head is over your hips with your chin parallel to the floor and your pelvis level, you will walk with more energy and a lighter step.  Taking care to assure your spine is in proper alignment has an added benefit of better posture and balance.

Muscle Strength

The spine is surrounded by large muscles in the abdomen and back.  These muscles help to support your spine.  Strengthening these muscles will improve your spinal health.  Physical activity is a great way to strengthen your muscles and your spinal stability. Those who exercise and perform physical activities on a regular basis are less prone to injuries and will heal quicker from any injuries that do occur.  Stronger muscles that stabilize the spine can decrease back pain, give you more energy, and make daily physical activities easier.

If you are experiencing lower back pain, try increasing the flexibility in your back, practicing correct posture, and strengthening the muscles around your spine.  Whether you have back pain or not, be sure to contact Dr. Alex Gompers to assist with proper spinal alignment.  If you live in Pittsburgh, PA, Limitless Chiropractic can work with you to increase your spinal health.