How Spine Alignment Affects Your Whole Body

Apr 22, 2021by Bri Larson

Healthy Alignment - How Spine Alignment Affects Your Whole Body

Proper spine alignment helps your body move in a smart, efficient way with less risk of injury. Body alignment keeps the body moving, sitting, standing, working, exercising and active for a long time. Proper alignment is important not only for your back but also your overall health.

Proper alignment helps the major systems in your body to function properly. These systems include: digestive, respiratory, nervous and immune systems. Proper body alignment also prevents injuries and balances how muscle groups work. When the spine is properly aligned, less energy is used in movement and less stress is placed on the joints. Poor alignment causes wear and tear on joints and creates more risk of injury.

Here are five simple ways to improve spine alignment and maintain a strong, healthy body.

Let the spine rest while sleeping. During sleep all the structures in the spine have an opportunity to relax and rejuvenate.
Choose shoes carefully. Whether walking for exercise or simply walking to get someplace wear well balanced, flexible, comfortable shoes that support the feet and keep the spine and body in alignment.
Sit up straight. The discs in the lower spine are loaded 3-times more while sitting than standing, so long periods of sitting can create or aggravate a painful back condition. Sitting for long periods of time should be done in should be done in a chair that promotes good posture and supports the natural curves in the spine.
Exercise the abs and back. Exercise is a vital component of good spine health. Abdominal and back exercise help keep the spine aligned and healthy. Well maintained muscles that support the spine minimize the risk of injury.
Drink water. Water helps to keep all the muscles and joints in the body well hydrated which reduces pain and increases mobility.

If you find yourself riddled with back pain during the night, it's likely your mattress. Mattresses with lack of sufficient support, no cushion, or are old and sagging should be replaced. It's important to support your spine in a comfortable, neutral position while sleeping. Typically, Chiropractors advise it's best to sleep on your back on a firm to medium-firm mattress. If your mattress is too soft you could be wreaking havoc on your spine by not supporting your skeletal structure for roughly 8 hours of your day.

Check out these two YouTube videos from Chiropractor Dr Matt for advice on Sleeping Positions & proper Bedtime Routine.