The way in which we carry ourselves is known as posture. This can be static, or dynamic. There are many contributing factors that influence the way we hold ourselves, age, situations and daily choices. Everything in some way has an impact on the stability and support of the body. 

As chiropractors, we are concerned with how spinal alignment can affect posture. Vertebral subluxation will affect our body’s ability to adapt to the environment and could result in alterations of our posture. If the head is not in correct alignment with the cervical spine, due to vertebral subluxation, then, over time, this can cause big changes in the weight distribution transmitted through the spine. 

In a neutral position, the weight transmitted from the skull on your cervical spine is approximately 5kg. As the head tilts forward then that force dramatically increases. Studies have shown that even looking down at around 45 degrees can increase the force transmitted through the neck to up to 22kgs. Over time, this will not only stress and impact the muscular system but will have a resultant effect on the nervous system, the system responsible for allowing us to express life. 

If there is a misalignment of the upper-cervical spine, there will be a natural increase in the pressure transmitted due to the structural changes that occur within the spine. Unless corrected by a chiropractor trained in the location, analysis and correction of vertebral subluxation, the issue will not resolve itself. Vertebral subluxations are permanent in nature due to the anatomy. 

Restoring proper alignment between the head and the cervical spine will take the pressure off the nervous and musculoskeletal systems and improve our posture. 

If you have noticed alterations in your posture over time or have the feeling that your ‘head is too heavy for your neck’, don’t hesitate to get in touch to see if chiropractic care can help.