How Structural Alignment Affects Your Internal Organs and Overall Health

Spinal and structural alignment plays a critical role, not just in your posture, but also in the health of your internal organs.

A study titled “The Impact of Positive Sagittal Balance in Adult Spinal Deformity” highlights how misalignment, specifically positive sagittal balance, can impact your health and what you can do about it.

What is Positive Sagittal Balance?

Positive sagittal balance refers to a structural shift of the spine, a condition where the spine leans too far forward when viewed from the side. This misalignment causes the upper body to tilt forward, leading to various health issues, including effects on internal organs. These shifts can also occur in other areas of the spine and to varying degrees of severity.

Key Findings

1. Impact on Internal Organs:
   • Structural shifts of the spine, particularly forward tilting, can compress the chest and abdominal cavity, affecting the organs within. This can lead to breathing difficulties, reduced lung capacity, and impaired digestive functions.
   • The misalignment can also place pressure on the nerves that control the visceral organs, potentially leading to dysfunctions in heart rate, digestion, and other vital processes.
2. Health Implications:
   • People with structural shifts often experience increased pain and reduced physical function. The body compensates for this imbalance by adopting unnatural positions, which can further strain internal organs and exacerbate health problems.
3. Importance of Proper Assessment:
   • Accurate measurement of structural alignment using radiographic techniques is essential for diagnosing the extent of the deformity and planning effective treatment. Understanding the impact on visceral systems is crucial for comprehensive care.
4. Treatment Options:
   • Surgical Treatments: In extreme cases, surgery may be required to realign the spine and relieve pressure on the internal organs.
   • Non-Surgical Treatments: Structural Chiropractic care provides a thorough and comprehensive assessment of one’s structural and spinal health. From there, an individualized solution can help a patient overcome structural issues. A plan may include complementary support, such as physical therapy, nutritional support, as well as guidance on orthopedic recommendations.

How Can This Knowledge Help You?

1. Stay Aware of Your Posture:
   • Good posture helps maintain proper spinal alignment, reducing the risk of compressing your internal organs. Sit and stand up straight, keeping your shoulders back and your head aligned with your spine.
2. Regular Check-Ups:
   • Regular visits to healthcare providers, such as a Structural Chiropractor can help detect early signs of structural shifts. Early detection can prevent more severe issues, including those affecting internal organs.
3. Exercise Regularly:
   • Engage in exercises that strengthen your core and back muscles, supporting better spinal alignment. Activities like yoga, pilates, swimming, and properly performed squats, deadlifts, and pulling movements can be beneficial.
   • Adjust your workspace to support good posture. Ensure your computer screen is at eye level, your chair supports your lower back, and take regular breaks to move and stretch.
4. Monitor Your Health:
   • If you experience symptoms like difficulty breathing, digestive issues, or irregular heartbeats, consider consulting a healthcare provider to assess if spinal alignment could be a contributing factor.

Conclusion

Spinal alignment has far-reaching effects beyond just posture, significantly impacting your internal organs and overall health.

By staying aware of your posture, getting regular check-ups, exercising, and making ergonomic adjustments, you can reduce the risk of spinal misalignment and protect your internal organs.

A healthy spinal structure supports a healthier, more active life, ensuring that all your body systems function optimally.

Glassman SD, Bridwell K, Dimar JR, Horton W, Berven S, Schwab F. The impact of positive sagittal balance in adult spinal deformity. Spine (Phila Pa 1976). 2005 Sep 15;30(18):2024-9. doi: 10.1097/01.brs.0000179086.30449.96. PMID: 16166889.