6 Common Causes of a Misaligned Spine
Patients often seek chiropractic care for back and neck pain caused by spinal misalignments. Other symptoms caused less recognizable include fatigue, numbness of tingling in the hands and feet, headaches and frequent illnesses. If you’ve been feeling unwell or experiencing any of these symptoms you could have a misaligned spine, also known as vertebral subluxation. If you’re unsure of how this occurred, these 6 common causes of a misaligned spine could be the reason.
Accidents
Accidents are one of the leading causes of spinal misalignments. Motor vehicle accidents, accidents at work, or a sport related accident, can force the body to stop too quickly or become forced into a position that compromises the spine. Consequently, vertebral subluxations can occur.
Improper Lifting Technique
Lifting a heavy object without using the proper technique puts added stress on the spine. Likewise, even if the item isn’t heavy- repetitive poor lifting technique can misalign the spine. By learning and practicing proper lifting techniques, you can reduce the risk of injury.
Falls
If you’ve suffered a fall you likely were evaluated for broken bones and cuts, but the impact of the fall can also cause problems in the spine. Seeking out a chiropractor to follow up on the health of your spine after a fall can prevent further damage to the spine and consequential illness.
Poor Form With Exercise
Bending the back and not having control of weights during exercises can lead the spine to misalign. Improper posture when using equipment such as bikes and treadmills can also further problems with the spine. Poor positioning of the upper body when lifting can create tension in the muscles around the neck. Poor muscle function over time can lead to vertebral subluxations.
Stress
Physical, emotional and chemical stresses out on the body can cause spinal misalignments. Child birth, starting a new job, and poor nutrition can all create these changes. Tensions in the body cause the spine to “lock up” and impede functional motion of the joints.
Poor Posture
Poor posture impacts stresses placed on the spine and can cause vertebral subluxations. Hours of sitting at desks that are not set up ergonomically are just one example of how poor posture can affect your spine. Slouching and weak musculature around the spine can increase the risk of misalignment. Keeping proper posture and ergonomics can keep your body healthy.
