The typical understanding of good posture is that of someone standing up straight. The truth is, while that may be part of the process, the single most important thing about your posture is something you can’t see – the spinal curves.
We believe in structural-functional medicine at Holistic Integration, which is a method of determining whether or not you have proper functioning by analyzing the actual structural anatomy of your body. In the human body, one of the most essential curves is the cervical lordosis – the C-shape of your neck.
What is Cervical Lordosis?
Your neck curve needs to be around 35 to 45 degrees. It works as a shock absorber for the head, which weighs roughly 10 to 12 pounds. With the curve, all the weight is evenly distributed over your vertebrae and discs.
Unfortunately, many people have become victims of what we call “lifestyle diseases” and “Tech Neck.” Due to poor habits like bending your head forward for extended periods of time and hunched over in front of your computer, you might lose your neck’s natural curve. Such a disease is called either Military Neck (loss of lordosis) or, in some cases, Kyphosis.
How a Flat Neck Impacts Your Central Nervous System
Having no neck curve to your neck is not only an aesthetic problem or one of “stiff muscles”; there is a much deeper effect on your body’s nervous system. The spinal cord is protected by the spinal column; without the curve of the neck, the spinal cord is stretched and put under strain.
- Such strain in your body can lead to various problems that you may not directly associate with your neck, such as:
- Frequent Headaches and Migraines: Caused by increased tension around the base of the skull.
- Tiredness and Dullness: Tension and lack of proper flow of fluid and nerve signals to the brain.
- Pins and Needles: Pressure on nerves leading to your arms and fingers.
- Breathing Problems: The rib movement can be affected by alterations in your neck.
The Road to Neck Curve Correction
While the standard chiropractic adjustment is vital in allowing joint mobility to be regained, when it comes to changing the actual structure of the spine, we need to focus on the soft tissue structures that have “re-modeled” themselves into an undesirable form.
That is why neck curve correction is not something that can be done overnight. In order to bring about real changes, we use specific tools for rehabilitation.
The Dakota Traction Unit – An Introduction
Among the most beneficial tools we can suggest for our clients at Holistic Integration is the Dakota Traction Unit.
Contrary to a mere stretch, the Dakota Traction Unit is a process of spinal decompression that aims to restore the natural curve of the cervical spine. This is achieved through the utilization of an innovative extension-compression method. As you recline, the device creates a gentle stretch that:
- Decompresses the Disks: Providing nourishment for the disks of the spine.
- Remodels Ligaments: Gently stretching the contracted ligaments of the anterior spine.
- Re-Trains the Spine: With regular use, training the spine to regain its healthy C-shaped curvature.
A Holistic Approach to Spinal Care
In the holistic approach adopted by Holistic Integration, the symptom itself is not treated. We provide comprehensive chiropractic treatment complemented with home devices such as the Dakota Traction Unit, which helps in regaining control over structural well-being.
Do you have ongoing neck pain, headaches, or poor posture? It’s high time you explored the reasons behind them. Getting back your neck curve is among the most effective things you can do to achieve lifelong neurological wellbeing.
Ready to know how you fare? Get in touch with Holistic Integration now.