Remember Movement?

Spines are at the mercy of myriad factors that are conspiring to move vertebrae out of alignment. The fact is that the spine is not one long bone: it is a column of individual structures, punctuated by discs, that protect the spinal cord and facilitate the nervous system. It is an incredibly complex structure whose health can determine a life of health into old age, or become a huge blight on people’s lives. But one thing that all spines must do is move. 21st century spines are more vulnerable than ever to the damages that accrue from immobility. The computer is taking on tasks that humans have done for centuries, and as such, the human involved in working the computer is shifted into a chair in front of a screen for long periods of time.

If you spend significant amounts of time working or relaxing in front of a screen, it is important to be wary of the damages you could be doing to your spine. Poor posture is a topic for a different day, but consider the stagnation that occurs when you spend 6-8 hours in front of a computer, with little variation or movement, and then come home and watch television before bed. Your muscles are weakening due to lack of use, a condition called atrophy, that can spiral out of control if left unaddressed. Spinal discs are tightening as they absorb fluid, restricting your flexibility and making you more vulnerable to injury from movement.

At Family Chiropractic & Natural Healing Center, we want to get you moving again. It begins with an awareness and becomes an appreciation: taking 4 minutes out of every hour to stretch or walk around can be a boon for your back. We help you find these minutes and make them second nature. We will help you return strength and endurance to muscles that are being chronically underused and treat your spinal discs if they have suffered damage. Call our office in Milpitas to schedule an appointment today.

Dr. Gregory Lind, D.C.