The Cervical Spine

The cervical spine, the part of the spine that is just below the base of the skull, literally shoulders a big load also known as the human head. The human head weighs about 10 or 11 pounds. Now, think about that 10- or 11-pound head constantly leaning forward while you look at a computer or smart phone screen. Are you getting the picture?Let’s add to that, the cervical spine allows for the head’s flexibility and facilitates blood flow to the brain. Sounds like a pretty important piece of the spine, doesn’t it? In addition to regular chiropractic adjustments, here are a couple of things you can do to take care of that area of your spine.

• Make sure your work station is ergonomically correct. Your feet should be flat on the floor with your computer screen at eye level. This keeps your head from leaning forward, putting pressure on your cervical spine.
• Take breaks from starting at your smart phone.
• Lie across your bed on your back with your head hanging off of the bed. This takes the pressure off your cervical spine and helps maintain the gentle curve in that area.
• Build the muscles in your neck to support the cervical spine. We can show you some exercises that help build these muscles.