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The nervous system is composed of the brain, spinal cord, and spinal nerves. This “master system” controls the function of every cell, tissue, muscle and organ in the entire body.

This is one of the basic premises of chiropractic, and this is why it is important to keep your spine aligned through regular check-ups and adjustments.

Two other systems which are linked with the function of the nervous system are the endocrine (hormones) and immune systems. Misalignments of the spine, or subluxations, cause compression and irritation of nerve pathways, which effects the body’s organs and muscles. Such stressful conditions lead to decreased function of the immune system, since nerves that innervate this system are involved.

This in turn will lead to an increased susceptibility to a variety of ailments and conditions. If the sympathetic part of the nervous system is overstimulated due to stress and subluxations, it can lead to increased levels of cortisol, which is a stress hormone that inhibits, or weakens the immune system.

Doctors of chiropractic are the only doctors trained to detect and eliminate subluxations in the body. Chiropractic adjustments have been shown to reduce the stress on the nervous system, which will boost responses of the nervous and immune systems.

Various studies have shown that an adjustment in a certain area will increase white blood cell count significantly. These fight infection in the body and will help your immune system perform at a higher level. Other studies have shown that repeated, long-term chiropractic adjustments in HIV positive patients will result in an increase in T cells.

Remember, if you feel like you’re coming down with a cold/flu… come see us! It can only help!

Posture is position of the body while standing, sitting or lying down. Good posture, also referred to as neutral spine, has many health benefits, including the avoidance of injury-induced back pain. Chiropractic can help improve and maintain posture.

Why is Posture Important

Appearance benefits with good posture are obvious, but there are many less-obvious health benefits you should know. Good posture can:

• Maintain correct alignment of bones and joints
• Reduce stress on ligaments, minimizing risk of injury
• Prevent muscle strain, overuse and pain
• Conserve energy as muscles are used more efficiently
• Decrease abnormal joint wear

Research has shown that poor postures may increase feelings of depression, affect your digestive tract and influence confidence and stress levels.

Signs You have Poor Posture

There are many indicators of poor posture, but some of the more common are hunched shoulders, rounded shoulders, rounded upper back, forward head carriage and arched lower back. Another indicator is back pain. Unsure if you have good posture? Talk with us for a spinal examination.

Factors that Contribute to Poor Posture 

There are several common factors linked to poor posture:

• Stress
• Obesity
• Pregnancy
• Weak postural muscles
• Abnormally tight muscles
• High-heeled shoes

How to Maintain or Correct Posture

The first step is awareness! Bring your attention to your posture as you sit, stand or lie down. If you’re sitting, keep both feet on the floor or a footrest, don’t cross your legs and use low-back support. While standing, keep your knees slightly bent, relax your arms and pull your shoulders back. When lying down it’s critical to choose the right mattress and pillow, and avoid sleeping on your stomach.

Importance of Chiropractic Care and Therapies

We can can help you to maintain and correct your posture through chiropractic adjustments, exercises and recommendations on proper positions during different activities.

Give us a call today to learn more.