Signs Your Spine is Out of Alignment

A healthy spine is crucial for our overall wellbeing - after all, it serves as the central support structure for the entire body!

But it’s not just about maintaining good posture. Ensuring proper alignment of your spine helps improve nervous system function and may prevent long-term pain and discomfort (1) as well as a myriad of health issues (2).

Recognising any signs that our spine is out of alignment early on is essential for addressing the problem before it gets worse.

6 Signs your Spine may be Misaligned

Signs your spine may be out of alignment include:

1. Persistent Pain. One of the most obvious indicators of a misaligned spine is persistent pain. This can manifest as back pain, neck pain, or discomfort in other areas such as the hips, shoulders, or even knees.
2. Limited Range of Motion. If you find yourself unable to move your neck or back as freely as before, it could be a sign of spinal misalignment. Restricted range of motion may affect daily activities and diminish your overall quality of life.
3. Chronic Headaches. Misalignment in the spine may contribute to tension headaches or migraines.
4. Numbness or tingling. A misaligned spine may compress nerves, leading to sensations of numbness or tingling in various parts of the body – especially the hands or feet.
5. Postural Changes. Pay attention to changes in your posture. A misaligned spine may cause you to tilt to one side or hunch forward, affecting your overall body alignment.
6. Excessive Fatigue. Sometimes chronic or excessive fatigue can be caused by spine misalignment. Our registered chiropractor is trained to help you identify if this is the cause.

How can I prevent spine misalignment?

There are a number of lifestyle modifications you can make to take care of your spine, including:

1. Exercise and Stretching. Incorporating regular exercise and stretching routines into your daily life helps improve flexibility and strengthen the muscles supporting the spine.
2. Ergonomic Adjustments. Evaluate your workspace and daily activities to ensure proper ergonomics. Simple adjustments, such as maintaining a neutral spine while sitting or using ergonomic furniture, may make a significant difference.
3. Healthy Lifestyle Choices. Maintaining a healthy weight and avoiding habits like smoking may positively impact spinal health. Proper nutrition also plays a role in supporting overall wellbeing.

What should I do if I suspect my spine is out of alignment?

If you’re experiencing any of the above-mentioned symptoms, booking an appointment to see a chiropractor is a good idea. At Equilibrium Family Wellness, our experienced chiropractor will thoroughly investigate and address the root cause of your concern, rather than merely alleviating symptoms – which is crucial for long-term relief.

Depending on your individual situation, we may use a range of non-invasive techniques, such as spinal adjustment, pelvic blocking, soft tissue therapy, or cranial release, to realign the spine and help relieve any pain and discomfort.

For help with the symptoms of spine misalignment, contact our team today to book your consultation.

References:

1. https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/1748-7161-4-7
2. https://asmedigitalcollection.asme.org/biomechanical/article-abstract/141/7/070805/726866/Spinal-Balance-Alignment-Clinical-Relevance-and