The arch or curve is one of the most stable shapes found in nature and architecture—for example, the great Roman aqueducts (see above!).
Our spines also have curves. These curves are really important because our spines have to hold up our bodies against gravity, the constant force bearing down on us. The curves distribute these ever-present downward forces from gravity and prevent wear and tear on spinal joints and discs.
There are four curves in the spine and, like the springs in your mattress or the shocks in your car, the curves provide cushioning for our day-to-day physical activities.
Unfortunately, these curves can be lost due to misalignments in the spine, especially the ones in the upper cervical spine. The atlas misalignment causes a chain reaction where the spine has to compensate for the head being off-center. This creates situations where the normal, healthy curves in our spine are lost and unhealthy curves develop. See below for an example of unhealthy curves!
The loss of healthy curves leads to accelerated joint and disc disease in the spine and the spinal canal’s narrowing, leading to neurological symptoms.
Protect your spine! Get it checked! Don’t live with unhealthy curves in your spine!
