Why Proper Spinal Alignment Is So Important

A tower built with crooked supports is doomed to have problems (or fail completely). Your spine is no different. 

Your spine is one of the core structures of your body. Any discrepancy in your spinal alignment can trigger a number of issues, from back pain to migraines. 

With so much on the line, there’s no reason to leave your spine health to chance. 

Our team of experts at Nebben Physical Medicine in Clarksville, Tennessee, includes chiropractic care, internal medicine, and alternative medicine specialists trained to help you keep your body in perfect working order — especially your spine. 

Here’s a closer look at what we mean when we say spinal alignment matters. 

Understanding the problem

Spine misalignment often conjures images of the worst-case scenarios. Extreme cases of misalignment (scoliosis, kyphosis, and lordosis) that cause visible deformities, like uneven shoulders, curved back, and swayback, are all obvious signs of significant spinal issues. 

You needn’t look like the Hunchback of Notre Dame to have a problem with spine alignment. In fact, more subtle cases can be just as dangerous, as they often go undetected for years. 

You can catch an alignment issue early if you get help for these common warning signs:

• Numbness and tingling in the hands/feet
• Lower back pain
• Hip pain
• Neck pain
• Knee pain
• Fatigue

A spine out of alignment puts undue pressure and stress on nerves in your body and triggers these frustrating and debilitating symptoms. Spinal misalignment can even set off frequent headaches and migraines. 

When you present with pain and discomfort, we thoroughly evaluate your spinal alignment as part of our comprehensive diagnostic process. 

Left untreated, a minor alignment issue can lead to:

• Chronic pain
• Herniated or slipped discs
• Poor posture
• Sciatica
• Reduced range of motion
• Stiffness

At Nebben Physical Medicine, we take spinal misalignment seriously and work with you to create an action plan to restore your spine health. 

Getting your spine back to normal

A healthy spine seen from the back appears stick-straight. Stand to the side, and you notice a natural curve. Your spine curves gently to give it flexibility — almost a spring-like structure. 

When we help realign your spine, we want to protect it from bending laterally (side-to-side) and/or losing the gentle, natural curve. 

The best way to support your spine is to bolster your core and the muscles on either side of your spine. Our favorite muscle-building exercises and activities include:

• Yoga
• Weight/resistance training
• Pilates
• Tai chi

You may also consider stretching regularly or trying mind-body practices. Investing in ergonomic chairs, mattresses, and pillows can support your spine too. 

You don’t have to do any of this alone. We offer various services, including chiropractic care, physical therapy, bracing, and other advanced treatments like K-Laser therapy and Acousana™ therapy, to complement your exercises and promote healing all over your body. 

If you suspect a spinal alignment problem and want to get started with a treatment plan, we’d love to talk with you. Call our friendly staff or use our online booking tool to schedule a consultation today.