Science with a smile: Curves
By Roger R. Coleman, DC
There has been significant discussion on the need for, and the magnitude of, the curves of the spine that are seen when you look from the side.
In fact, some years ago, I sat on the board of a research group that was highly interested in the subject and which had published some articles regarding this question.
In the past, most of the work being done was directed at finding the normal or even perfect curve for either the cervical (neck), thoracic (mid back) or lumbar (lower back) areas. But in 2008, the debate took a turn.
Belgium and French researchers Legaye and Duval-Beaupere writing in the journal International Orthopaedics proposed that the shape of the pelvis greatly determined the amount of curve needed for each individual. They then produced an equation and they stated, “This easy-to-use tool allows a personalized evaluation of the sagittal balance of the spine …”
In other words, they indicated they were able to tell how a particular individual’s spine should look when viewed from the side and that the normal curve might vary from person to person.
Now if this is true, it could open up new ways in which we approach spinal care.
But will this technique come into common usage? I doubt it.
One of the reasons I write this column is human beings tend to become entrenched in the things they do. We are creatures of habit. So, I doubt a great many clinicians will change the way they practice.
And I’m not sure they should in this case.
This is a newer idea and it might be best to see if it is confirmed by other researchers.
But it should be discussed.
So, sit down with your doctor and the two of you can talk about the article “Gravitational forces and sagittal shape of the spine.”
It’s important to consider new ideas and I hope you’ll encourage your health care providers to be avid readers of the scientific literature.
The health they improve may be your own.
Short URL: http://othellooutlook.com/?p=6111
Posted by admin
on Nov 5 2009. Filed under Science with a smile.
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