WHAT IS A NORMAL SPINE

What does a normal spine actually look like?  There are actually multiple components to a spine that are critical for spinal health.  First is Structure, next is Function.

Structure

  • Structure simply means how does the spine look.  Similar to the Architecture of a building, the structure is critical to keeping discs healthy, avoiding muscle imbalances, and overall longevity of the spine.  
  • Normal Structure:
  • From the front, the spine is perfectly vertical, and the sacral base and pelvis is level.
  • From the Side, there are 3 major curves
  • A Lordotic 40 degree curve in the neck.
  • A Kyphotic 20-50 degree curve in the thoracic spine.
  • A Lordotic 20-50 degree curve in the lower back.
  • The curves of the spine from the side are critical for allowing proper weight bearing on discs, as well as normal spinal cord tension, and gives the spine much better ability to absorb shock. 
  • Visible changes in structure can be seen through postural changes.  For example, with scoliosis, many times you can see the curvature in the mid back causing a translation of the rib cage.  Posture is a window to your spine, and critical for spinal health.

Function

  • Function pertains to the movement and stability of the spine during movement.  This would be relatable to the gears of a car engine. The parts need to move properly to ensure discs take on healthy load bearing, muscles don’t take on excessive stress or strain, and there is no nerve pressure leading to pain or health problems. 
  • In regards to function, there are specific ways spinal bones and joints are supposed to work and move.  There are 6 planes of motion, flexion, extension, left and right rotation, and left and right lateral bending.  These six planes all have different degrees of movement at each level in the spine.
  • The spine also needs full mobility to help keep discs health and muscle tissue flexible, allowing you to live pain free! The reason chiropractic is so critical is because it allows for normal function and structure of the spine, so you can live pain free and full of vitality.  Precise Chiropractic adds years to your life, and life to your years.
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