Spine Alignment 101

There is a reason we have the common saying “it’s the backbone of everything.” The spine provides many vital functions in the body- including structure, support, flexibility, shock absorption, and protection of the delicate neural tissues such as the spinal cord. The spinal cord and nerve roots connect the brain to the entire body, allowing regulation of every basic bodily function. Basically, without the spine, we would not be able to move or function with intention each day.

What Does Good Spine Alignment Look Like?

For the spine to do its job optimally, it needs to be properly aligned. However, it’s easy for the spine to get out of sync with the daily activities we subject it to, including poor posture, awkward movement patterns, and even injury. Ultimately, spine misalignment can compromise essential functions and can even lead to illness or disease. To truly understand your alignment you should get in touch with a spine professional like a chiropractor.

However, there are a few relatively simple ways to generally assess your spine alignment.

• Whether the ears, shoulders, hips, and knees are aligned with each other- from side to side- in the frontal plane (facing straight forward)
• Assessing any spine rotation by bending forward to touch your toes and having someone look for a one sided rib hump (also used for scoliosis screening)
• How the head, shoulders, and spine curves themselves align from a side or sagittal plane – in general a spine creates a shallow “S” shape

These are basic metrics to assess but can vary significantly with each individual’s spine. This is why having a professional assessment is most helpful for maximizing your spine alignment and overall health.

Why Chiropractors are the Experts

Chiropractors, particularly those certified in Chiropractic BioPhysics (CBP), are specially trained to recognize spine misalignment and treat it non-invasively and holistically. CBP providers are the true experts when it comes to sustainable spine alignment. Addressing the spine as a pillar for good health is the ideal way to prevent, treat, and manage most general ailments. Once spine alignment has been addressed as a primary goal, your chiropractor can then help you identify other treatments and lifestyle adjustments that can maximize your health.

Find a CBP Provider

CBP practitioners are in high demand across the United States. However, there are only a small number of them throughout the nation. Thus, if you are lucky enough to have an expert in your area, you should get in touch with their clinic for guidance in optimized spine health. You can search our directory to see if there is a CBP care provider near you. Then, get in touch with their clinic and see what they can do for you to feel your best.