Lancaster Chiropractic Doctor Offers Postural Correction Therapy

By Carmella Isenhour


There may be a direct correlation between an individuals posture and structural abnormalities. For example, the way a person holds his head while sitting, standing or walking can result in misalignments of the vertebrae in the lower neck and upper back. Lancaster Chiropractic professionals can explain what is called forward head posture and how it can result in back pain and headaches.

In a view from the side, the person with good posture has his ear aligned with the middle of the shoulder. As chiropractors explain, for every inch forward from that ideal position the head is held, ten pounds of pressure are exerted against the neck and upper back. The effect of this unnecessary pressure is sometimes painful.

It is these muscles, the suboccipitals, that prevent the chin from dropping to the level of the chest. When they are continuously contracted, pressure is exerted on the three suboccipital nerves. This pressure can result in headaches.

Research indicates that such a forward position of the head adds leverage on the cervical spine. This can force the entire spinal column out of alignment. Breathing can be affected by this position. Some people develop a dowagers hump in the back between the shoulder blades.

Chiropractic adjustments are the optimal way to realign the vertebrae. When posture is corrected, they will be moved into correct alignment. Prior to any care, a thorough evaluation of the individual is completed.

Your first appointment will entail taking a medical history and answering questions such as when did you notice pain, and how intense is it. A hands-on physical exam of the area is required. In most cases an x-ray is necessary to confirm the findings.

Your professionally-designed care plan may begin with a series of adjustments to the cervical spine. An exercise plan may be used between appointments and on a daily basis. However, it is the postural training provided by your chiropractor that will determine how successfully the realignment can be attained and maintained.




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