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Preserve the Curves
Written By: Dr. Sue Aery - Aery Chiropractic & Acupuncture | Issue: August 2023
Love those curves! Preserving the curves is a fun health goal that everyone can get behind.
Dr. Sue Aery
Our curves are very important to spinal health as well as overall health and function.
We have three distinct curves in our spine, one primary and two secondary curves. The primary thoracic curve was given to us at birth. The secondary cervical and lumbar curves are developed as we grow, and we learn to crawl and walk. These curves blend into one long “spring-like” formation called the spine, which is made up of distinct vertebrae, each representative of its area of the spine. In a perfect world, these curves work together to take the weight of our head (8-12 pounds on average) and the gravitational forces that we deal with every day through various actions.
Over time, these curves can become altered by forces, habits and aging. The cushions between the vertebral bones are called discs and are designed to take on much of the weight and forces of daily life.
Preservation of our curves and the hydration and health of our discs are all dependent upon good knowledge and healthy daily habits.
For example, athletes’ spines withstand immense forces on a daily basis. But those who are more sedentary can experience damaging spinal “forces” as well. Movement is essential for healthy bones and joints, including the three curves of the spine.
The best way to preserve our curves is to understand how they work and how they are designed.
First, the cervical (neck) curve is what we call a lordotic curve. This is mirrored by the lumbar (low back) curve. The third and primary curve, the thoracic (chest area) spine lives between the cervical and lumbar curves.
This is considered a kyphotic curve or curved toward the back of the body. Each region has distinct features of the vertebrae. The cervical segments are smaller and designed for intricate movements, including side bending, rotation and a combination of both. The thoracic curve, which houses the ribs and their connections, is much more vertical in design and very sturdy. This region has a lot to protect as it encloses most of the vital organs, including the heart, lungs, stomach, pancreas, spleen, liver and kidneys.
The lumbar spine takes most of the larger forces, being the connection between the spine and the legs. Each lumbar segment is very large and durable, with heftier discs to absorb more heavy loads. It is also very stable to take on the larger movements of the body. The “spring” effect is important to absorb the loads of daily life, acting more like a spring with every movement.
