The following is an example of a blog post optimized from SEO. We use blog posts to educate patients about spinal health and wellness but also establish the Dr. Faith’s expertise and enhance the site’s online visibility.
The Impact Spinal Health has on Brain Health
Did you know that something such as posture, standing, sitting, or moving around, can have a crucial impact on our overall health, especially when it comes to brain health?
Dr. Roger Sperry, a Nobel laureate renowned for his groundbreaking research on the brain, once shared an astounding fact; “90% of the brain’s energy is used for posture alone.”
He added: “Better than 90 percent of the energy output of the brain is used in relating the physical body in its gravitational field. The more mechanically distorted a person is, the less energy available for thinking, metabolism and healing.”
Taking care of our health becomes even more important as we grow older. With advancements in medicine allowing us to live longer, there is also an increased prevalence of age-related ailments. One major concern is the loss of function, which has a significant impact on our quality of life and medical expenses.
Unraveling the Impact of Aging on Brain and Spinal Health
The American Psychological Association describes mild cognitive impairment (MCI) as a condition that sits in the middle of natural cognitive decline due to aging and the early stages of dementia. This state of MCI doesn’t necessarily lead to dementia, but it significantly increases the risk.
Furthermore, aging tends to deteriorate our lumbar balance, particularly in the lumbar and pelvic regions. While minor irregularities are often dismissed as a part of getting older, we now classify spinal imbalances as adult spinal deformity (ASD). Even a slight imbalance can greatly increase the risk of falls, and research has shown that severe imbalances are linked to a decline in quality of life.
In 2005, Dr. Steven Glassman and his team conducted research showing a correlation between declining posture and deteriorating health status. This correlation affects aspects of health such as breathing capacity, heart rate regulation, discomfort levels, and disability.
Exploring the Connection Between Cognitive Performance and Spinal Health
Both cognitive function and spinal imbalance are associated with the aging process. However, studies have suggested that there might be a connection between the two.
Researchers conducted a study involving over 400 individuals in Japan aged between 50 and 89 found that there is indeed a relationship between balance, which is measured using something called vertical axis (SVA), and cognitive function. The findings indicated that males with SVA were significantly more likely to experience decline, while for females factors such as age, SVA, osteoporosis, and subjective fatigue were associated with cognitive decline.
What does all this mean?
It suggests that spinal imbalance could be an indicator of reduced ability and motor function. Although we cannot definitively establish a definitive relationship between changes and cognitive decline based on these studies alone, they do highlight the fact that cognitive decline often occurs alongside sagittal imbalance as we age. Therefore, if one symptom manifests itself, it becomes crucial to assess the other.
Promoting Spinal Health for Cognitive Wellbeing
While these findings provide insights, there is still a need for investigation into the connection between spinal health and cognitive function. The question arises; which comes first, the loss of balance or the decline in function? Is there a cause-and-effect relationship at play? Is there an underlying factor that contributes to both? At present, experts recommend paying attention to changes in posture among individuals as a potential means to slow down or reverse health deterioration.
Maintaining a lifestyle that includes nourishing foods, caring for your spine through chiropractic care, and engaging in appropriate levels of physical activity can help keep our bodies strong and resilient for a longer time. When our spine is properly aligned, it facilitates communication between the brain and the rest of the body, thereby optimizing bodily functions.
Regular chiropractic adjustments can assist in maintaining alignment, reducing the impact of conditions, and potentially strengthening areas of the body to prevent injuries and ensure mobility. Consult with Dr. Faith regarding lifestyle changes that can enhance your brain and body function.
The possibility of leading a healthy life has become increasingly attainable. Therefore, it is essential for us to prioritize our well-being by starting with something as simple as maintaining good posture. It is advisable to have checkups with Dr. Faith for your spine not only when you experience symptoms but also as a preventive measure.
The correlation between posture and brain health is not just an assumption but a well-researched reality. It is time we recognize the importance of our posture, as an aspect of overall well-being positively influences both our mental and physical health for years to come.
The best time to start taking care of your spinal health is right now. No matter what age or condition you are in, Simply Well Chiropractic in Cincinnati can help you achieve your wellness goals. Give Dr. Faith a call at (513) 271-1233 or visit simplywellchiro.com to schedule an appointment today!
