Month: June 2025

The Cervical Curve

Posted on by zgower

Research shows importance of cervical curve on overall health. 

In our technology culture, the repetitive use of cell phones and computers causes increased stress and strain on the neck, resulting in forward head posture and flattening of the curve in the neck.  Every inch forward the skull leans over the body causes an additional 10 lbs of pressure on the spine.  A normal curvature in the neck is between 39-45 degrees. 

A team of researchers evaluated the effects of chronic compression, associated with cervical kyphosis (reversal of cervical curvature) on the cervical spine and spinal cord.

The study “Spinal kyphosis causes demyelination and neuronal loss in the spinal cord,” was done at the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, School of Medicine, Keio University, in Tokyo, Japan, and published in Spine Journal.

In the study, surgical spine procedures were performed at the C4–C5 level in 52 small game fowls to induce change in normal biomechanics of the cervical spine.

In all operated animals, there was a significant correlation between progressive kyphosis (loss of cervical curve) with spinal cord compression.  Demyelination (damage to the protective covering of surrounding nerve fibers) as well as neuronal loss and atrophy (breakdown of tissue) were observed. Demyelination progressed as the kyphotic deformity became more severe.  Mechanical compression and vascular changes in the spinal cord were observed, resulting in decreased blood flow through the carotid arteries.

The research study highlights the negative long term effects of Subluxation (reduced spinal motion) leading to;

  • degeneration of the spine
  • loss of normal spinal curvature
  • spinal cord compression
  • reduced vascular flow

Chiropractic care helps improve motion in the spine and reduce spinal cord tension.  Get your spine checked by a Chiropractor and experience greater health and vitality!

Reference

Shimizu, Kentaro, et al. “Spinal Kyphosis Causes Demyelination and Neuronal Loss in the Spinal Cord.” Spine, vol. 30, no. 21, Nov. 2005, pp. 2388–2392.

 

Pregnancy and Chiropractic

Posted on by zgower

Why every pregnant mom needs to see a Chiropractor

Adjustments remove interference in the nervous system, the master control system within the body, allowing optimal health and life processes to function in the mother and baby.

Benefits of Chiropractic Care Before Pregnancy
  • More regular menstrual cycle and optimal uterine function
  • Prepares the body to be strong and balanced to carry your pregnancy
  • Restoring nerve supply to reproductive organs helps with fertility problems
  • Strengthens immune system

Chiropractic During Pregnancy

  • Helps leg cramps, pubic bone and low back pain during pregnancy
  • Maintains pelvic structures in proper alignment, preventing pressure build up on the sciatic nerves and round ligaments. This promotes optimal fetal position and leads to a safer and easier labor
  • Stress reduction and hormonal balance
Post Delivery
  • Helps with birth trauma received during the labor and delivery process, particularly when medical interventions such as vacuum extraction, episiotomy, caesarean sections and other surgical procedures are employed.
  • Breastfeeding challenges
  • Parents report symptom relief of infantile colic, constipation, chronic ear infections, bed-wetting, torticollis, scoliosis, acid-reflux, asthma and ADHD
 
Postural Changes During Pregnancy
   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dr. Zach Gower is a member of the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association (ICPA). He is trained and certified in the Webster Technique- a safe and gentle chiropractic approach for pregnancy which helps stabilize the pelvis, reduce pressure and tension in the pelvic muscles and ligaments, and support the baby to naturally assume a normal birth position.  Chiropractic care for pregnancy has been shown to help reduce labour times, maintains pelvic floor stability and improve balance and structure in the mother’s spine and pelvis. Dr. Gower is passionate about providing chiropractic for pregnant women and helping families and children express their optimal health potential. 

 
References

Ohm, Jeanne, DC, and Joel Alcantara, DC. “The Webster Technique Definition, Application and Implications.” J. Pediatric, Maternal & Family Health May.10 (2012): 49-53. Print. http://icpa4kids.org/Chiropractic-Research/Webster-Technique/

The Benefits of Chiropractic 

Posted on by zgower

 

Restoring Balance and Function:
Chiropractic care focuses on aligning the spine, which houses the central nervous system. By ensuring the spine is properly aligned, we optimize the communication pathways between the brain and the rest of the body, allowing for improved function and overall balance.

Enhancing Overall Wellness:
Chiropractic allows your body to function at its best. Regular adjustments can improve sleep, reduce stress, boost the immune system, and enhance athletic performance.

Non-Invasive Approach: 

Chiropractic care is a non-surgical and non-invasive alternative to conventional treatments like medication or surgery.

Preventative Care:
By maintaining spinal health, we can help prevent issues before they arise, reducing the likelihood of chronic conditions and diseases developing over time. A personalized care plan is designed specifically to correct the problem.

Whole-Body Health:
Chiropractic principles recognize that the body is a complex, interconnected system. By addressing spinal misalignments, we’re not treating symptoms; we’re facilitating nerve system connection and overall well-being.

Supports Child Development:
Chiropractic care benefits children by ensuring their spine and nervous system develop properly.  Regular adjustments can help with issues like colic, sleep disturbances, ear infections, and support healthy growth and postural development. 

Promotes a Healthy Pregnancy:
For expecting mothers, chiropractic care can help manage pregnancy-related discomfort, optimize pelvic alignment, and even contribute to a smoother delivery process. It’s a safe, natural way to support both the mother and baby during pregnancy. 

Strengthens Family Wellness:
Chiropractic care promotes overall wellness for the entire family. From infants to seniors, regular adjustments can improve quality of life by enhancing mobility, boosting immunity, and reducing the likelihood of injuries.  Families that get adjusted together are more balanced, connected and stronger overall. 

Encourages Healthy Habits:
Family chiropractic care often includes guidance on nutrition, exercise, and lifestyle habits, fostering a culture of health and well-being to support your family.

Enhances Emotional Well-being:
Supports emotional well-being by reducing stress and nerve tension, allowing inner transformation A healthy spine and nerve system can positively influence mood, energy levels, and overall mental health.