Chiropractic and Weight

By John R. Greensfelder, DC

Do you have a fat stomach? If so, more than likely you have moderate to severe back pain. Your spine is designed to carry the body's weight and to have this weight distributed properly. With extra pounds, the spine starts to distort and compress, causing lots of pain and discomfort. The pelvis can become tilted forward causing it to pinch the sciatic nerve. These conditions tend to cause low back pain due to sciatica or distortion of the spinal column.

Losing weight is difficult even if you have the best intentions. Chiropractic care can assist you with the pain as you shed the extra pounds. Losing extra weight naturally and healthfully is very important. Two simple, but not easy things to do are 1) get some sort of exercise, even if it's a small amount; 2) take in fewer calories than you burn.

Fat is essential for good health because it provides energy when the body needs it, and provides insulation and protection for vital organs. It is the accumulation of too much fat that causes many health problems, including diabetes, hypertension, stroke, heart disease and arthritis.

Having more fiber through eating vegetables and fruits along with eliminating large amounts of carbohydrates will increase your energy and well being while losing those extra pounds. Start exercising slowly and forget the “no pain, no gain theory.” Exercise may sometimes be uncomfortable, but should not be painful.

Consult your chiropractor about basic stretching exercises. Concentrate on your core abdominal muscles. Strong abdominal muscles aid in relieving back pain. Your chiropractor will be able to recommend exercises which will be best for you.

Dedication to shedding extra weight will not only help with back pain, but will decrease joint problems of the knees and hips. You have heard these things before, but now that you know your back is depending on you, this is the time to get truly motivated.