Lakeside Chiropractic of Lake Norman, NC

Ask the Chiropractor

Q: Is it true that stress can cause misalignments in the spine?

A: Yes. Misaligned spinal bones that interfere with nerve messages are called subluxations. Subluxations are caused by a variety of stresses including:

Emotional Stress: Moods and attitudes can alter posture, muscle tone and nerve function. For example, if we become depressed, angry or fearful, we usually contract the shoulder muscles and lower the head. There is increased tension and stretching of nerves in the neck. The abnormal posture and muscle tension sustained over time produces significant structural problems in the spine. Researchers continue to verify that many physical complaints are related to poor emotional health.

Chemical Stress: Several medical studies have established that toxins (harmful chemicals) irritate nerves. Toxins are present in environmental pollution, food additives, pesticides, tobacco or medication (over-the counter and prescription). These chemicals act on the body by irritating nerves, which in turn tighten muscles. Muscles that are abnormally tense can pull vertebrae out of alignment and put pressure on spinal nerves that travel to and control various body parts.

Physical Stress: The most obvious stress associated with misaligned vertebrae is physical stress. Physical stress may come from accidents, falls, sports injuries or other bodily trauma. Physical stress also results from less noticeable causes such as, poor posture or repetitive movements that gradually cause spinal bones to misalign or “lock-up”.

Chiropractors correct subluxations resulting from physical, chemical and emotional stress and eliminate nerve interference. The body is then able to adapt more easily to the realities of everyday living.

Have a brief question? Write to: Ask the Chiropractor, Lakeside Chiropractic of Lake Norman, 16511 Northcross Dr., Suite B, Huntersville, NC 28078 or send email to DrBattaglia@LakesideChiro.com.

Dr. Joyce Battaglia is nationally board certified and licensed to practice in North Carolina. She’s currently practicing in Huntersville, NC.

Informational Articles

Ask the Chiropractor Q: Is it true that stress can cause misalignments in the spine? A: Yes. Misaligned spinal bones that interfere with nerve messages are called subluxations. Subluxations are caused by a variety of stresses including: Emotional Stress: Moods and attitudes can alter posture, muscle tone and nerve function. For example, if we become depressed, angry or fearful, we usually contract the shoulder muscles and lower the head. There is increased tension and stretching of nerves in the neck. The abnormal posture and muscle tension sustained over time produces significant structural problems in the spine. Researchers continue to verify that many physical complaints are related to poor emotional health. Chemical Stress: Several medical studies have established that toxins (harmful chemicals) irritate nerves. Toxins are present in environmental pollution, food additives, pesticides, tobacco or medication (over-the counter and prescription). These chemicals act on the body by irritating nerves, which in turn tighten muscles. Muscles that are abnormally tense can pull vertebrae out of alignment and put pressure on spinal nerves that travel to and control various body parts. Physical Stress: The most obvious stress associated with misaligned vertebrae is physical stress. Physical stress may come from accidents, falls, sports injuries or other bodily trauma. Physical stress also results from less noticeable causes such as, poor posture or repetitive movements that gradually cause spinal bones to misalign or “lock-up”. Chiropractors correct subluxations resulting from physical, chemical and emotional stress and eliminate nerve interference. The body is then able to adapt more easily to the realities of everyday living. Have a brief question? Write to: Ask the Chiropractor, Lakeside Chiropractic of Lake Norman, 16511 Northcross Dr., Suite B, Huntersville, NC 28078 or send email to DrBattaglia@LakesideChiro.com. Dr. Joyce Battaglia is nationally board certified and licensed to practice in North Carolina. She’s currently practicing in Huntersville, NC.