It’s no secret obesity plays a huge factor into one’s health in a negative way but what some may not know is how greatly obesity can affect the spine. With obesity comes complications that can escalate if not managed properly.
What Is Obesity
When defined as being obese, the person is in a state of being grossly overweight. The body mass index tool is used by the CDC to determine a person’s body fat on a scale of healthy to unhealthy. In regards to obesity, if a person falls in the 30-35 percent BMI they are a class I, 35-39 percent class II and 40 percent and above is a class III which is extremely obese.
The State of Obesity is an organization in which looks to create a healthier country. They surveyed the country and found that almost seven states had an obesity rate higher than 35 percent. It’s not a secret that there are many people in our country who are unhealthy like never before. This lifestyle needs to be addressed and changed so that future generations do not continue this unhealthy lifestyle.
How Weight Weighs On The Spine
The spine houses and protects the central nervous system. The vertebral column also offers a structure for musculature attachment. Those muscles then control the rest of the body. A healthy spine has three normal curves: one lordotic curve (think backward C shape) in the cervical spine; one kyphotic curve (think C shape) in the thoracic (mid back); one lordotic curve in the lumbar spine (low back). These curves help support the weight of the entire body, and ensure proper shock absorption and motion.
With added weight, stress is put onto spine. With the extra weight, range of motion can decrease making normal activities more difficult and adding stress to the bones. There is a process with bones where when old bone cells are absorbed and new ones laid down. If this process doesn’t occur at the proper rate of time, bone spurs are laid down or even the beginning of degeneration of the bones and discs.
When limited range of motion comes into play coupled with spinal degeneration, the spines health is put at risk. When the spine is not in optimal health, the central nervous system is at risk as well and function can decrease. This can lead to tension and pain and leave a person more susceptible to injuries.
How Chiropractors Can Help
If working with a chiropractor, they can provide adjustments to the spine allowing for the central nervous system to regain its optimal function as well as increasing range of motion. Working with a chiropractor can help if battling with obesity by working to get your body in its optimal state through adjustments and improving your overall quality of health.
Although obesity may be mentally daunting, it can be physically debilitating if not addressed and dealt with properly. Working with a chiropractor and receiving adjustments can help promote overall wellness as well as combating symptoms associated with obesity. Chiropractic care may not be able to solve every aspect of obesity, but it is a good starting point for managing symptoms and helping to get you on the right track. If you are looking for more information on how to chiropractic care may be right for you, contact our Atlanta chiropractors at (404) 889-8828.