Your body consists of intricate systems that work together to keep you alive. Although many body parts are essential, some like the heart and brain receive more attention than others. For example, the spine is often neglected but keeping it healthy can significantly impact the rest of the body! What kind of effect can a healthy spine have? Keep reading to find out!
Support and Framework for Your Entire Body
When you look at the human skeleton, you’ll quickly notice that the spine directly supports the head, where the brain is housed and protected. In addition to allowing your head to turn and move through your neck, your spine is supposed to hold it balanced with good posture, allowing your brain to function at its best.
In addition to your head, your spine contributes to the framework of the rest of your body. In fact, entire nervous system depends on the spine! As a result, when you have a healthy spine, your nerves can have clear and optimal communication with your brain. On the other hand, when your spine is not properly aligned, you can feel symptoms like headaches, back pain, or even pain with other systems of the body.
Movement and Mobility
Obviously, you require muscles to move, but your joints and spine also enable motion. In fact, many nerves start in the spine and extend out into your extremities. The sciatic nerve, for instance, begins at the base of the spine and goes through the buttocks and into each leg. If this nerve is irritated in the spine, you may feel pain, numbness, or tightness in your legs, restricting your mobility and function.
Protection and Preservation
You may not initially think of the spine as a protective feature of your body, but because of its importance, your spine has tons of vertebrae and cushioning discs to not only allow movement and flexibility but also to guard the spinal nerve. Plus, the nerves located in your spine can help control your reaction time, your ability to react to threats, and other essential tasks for survival. Needless to say, you want to preserve your spinal health!
Less Pain, More Living
When you endure pain related to the spine, there is little room for normal functions, much less enjoyment or pleasure. On the other hand, when you have a healthy spine, you can then focus on accomplishing your goals, living in the moment, being active, and having a higher quality of life.
Clearly, maintaining your spinal well-being should be a concern if you want to lead a healthy lifestyle. Fortunately, caring for this body part doesn’t have to be complicated. Working with a chiropractor somewhat regularly can make sure your spine remains properly aligned. Plus, they can give you tips for spinal health, such as guidance on posture, sleeping position, stretches and exercises, and more. So do your best to keep your spine happy!
About the Author
Dr. Zinovy Chukhman, or Dr. Z as he is called by his patients, earned his chiropractic degree at the Parker College of Chiropractic and uses many techniques to relieve pain and restore spinal health. Some of these techniques include Graston, flexion-distraction, Gonstead, and Diversified Thompson. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Z at his practice, AlignRight Chiropractic, you may contact the Richardson office online or call 972-907-2800.
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