Spinal & Postural Screenings
One of the most important parts of a chiropractor’s patient evaluation are spinal and postural screenings, which is when they evaluate the condition of a patient’s spine. They will examine the spinal structure and search for any irregularities or deformities along the spine that can affect your balance or posture. During a screening, they will do a hands-on evaluation or use medical imaging devices to look for any signs of misalignment. Screenings are crucial for detecting problems early on so a chiropractor can develop a targeted treatment plan.
Symptoms of Spinal & Postural Issues
Symptoms that are caused by issues affecting the nerves or muscles have the potential to develop into more serious conditions. A strong and healthy musculoskeletal system is integral for balance, mobility and maintenance of overall health. A minor misalignment or other problem can be enough to result in a significant issue. Patients who experience symptoms that affect their spine or posture often find it difficult to move or do simple tasks throughout the day.
A patient who has spinal or postural issues may experience common symptoms such as:
- Poor flexibility
- Trouble walking
- Pain or pressure in the neck or back
- Restricted movement
- Difficulty sitting or standing
- Numbness or tingling sensation
Having good posture throughout the day is central to the body’s ability to function. Maintaining good posture reduces tension and stress on the spine and back. Habits such as slouching or not having the proper form during stretches or workouts can result in a host of issues. Poor posture can contribute to neck, back and shoulder pain and make existing conditions worse.
What to Know Before Your Visit
Before your screening, you will have a brief free consultation with the chiropractor. They will ask you questions about your patient history, whether you have sought out treatment for your condition before, and the nature of the symptoms you are experiencing.
After the consultation, you can set up an appointment where the chiropractor will conduct the spinal and postural screening. During the screening, one of the key things a chiropractor will evaluate is your posture. They will conduct a spinal analysis to locate any issues driving your pain or discomfort. You may be asked to demonstrate a series of movements, such as raising your arms, bending your limbs, walking or doing basic exercises such as a sit-up. Wear loose, comfortable clothing to your first appointment so that you can properly move during the exam.
We may also need to take X-rays so we can view detailed images of your spine and skeletal system. This is done on site at Mid-Atlantic Spinal Rehab & Chiropractic. The X-rays may inform us of issues that are not immediately noticeable. Many people often do not realize they have certain problems such as misalignments until they view their X-ray scans. The chiropractic will provide you a copy of your X-ray images so you can refer to them.
Schedule an Appointment With a Top Chiropractor
There is a saying that an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Spinal and postural screening should be done early to prevent your symptoms or condition from progressing. Your spinal health is no exception. Posture and spinal screenings by trained and experienced chiropractors such as Dr. Marc Gulitz and his team at Mid-Atlantic Spinal Rehab & Chiropractic can help reveal important health information, unlocking the door to improved health and well-being. Contact us today at (443) 842-5500 to arrange a screening at your event or workplace.
The Importance of Spinal Screenings
Spinal health is crucial for overall well-being and proper body function which is why Maryland spinal postural screenings are imperative to stay healthy. The spine plays a central role in supporting the body, protecting the spinal cord, and facilitating movement. Regular spinal screenings are essential for identifying potential issues early on, preventing further complications, and maintaining optimal spinal health. Learn why you need spinal screenings, and then contact Mid-Atlantic Spinal Rehab & Chiropractic to schedule one.
Early Detection of Spinal Problems
Spinal screenings can help detect spinal problems at their early stages, even before symptoms become noticeable. Many spinal conditions, such as misalignments, postural imbalances, or spinal abnormalities, may not present obvious symptoms initially. Regular screenings allow healthcare professionals to identify these issues early and intervene with appropriate treatment or preventive measures.
Prevention of Future Complications
By detecting spinal issues early, preventive measures can be implemented to address them before they worsen. Conditions such as scoliosis, spinal degeneration, or herniated discs can progress over time, leading to more severe symptoms and potential complications. Timely identification and intervention through screenings can help prevent or minimize the impact of these conditions and maintain better long-term spinal health. Even if you never experience any issues, prevention is key.
Improved Posture and Function
Spinal screenings often include assessments of posture and spinal alignment. Poor posture can lead to strain on the spine and surrounding muscles, resulting in discomfort, pain, and limited mobility. Identifying postural imbalances early allows for intervention through targeted exercises, ergonomic modifications, or manual therapies, which can improve posture and overall body function.
Enhanced Sports Performance
Athletes and individuals engaged in physical activities can benefit greatly from MD spinal postural screenings completed on a regular basis. Proper spinal alignment and function are crucial for optimal sports performance. Regular screenings help identify any spinal issues that may be affecting an athlete’s performance or increasing the risk of injury. Early intervention through chiropractic care, physical therapy, or corrective exercises can improve alignment, enhance biomechanics, and maximize sports performance.
Identifying Spinal Health Risks
Some individuals may have specific risk factors that predispose them to spinal conditions or injuries. For example, individuals with a family history of spinal abnormalities, those who work in physically demanding occupations, or individuals involved in high-impact sports may have an increased risk of spinal issues. Regular spinal screenings can help identify these risk factors and allow for proactive measures to mitigate potential problems.
Overall Wellness and Quality of Life
Spinal health is closely interconnected with overall wellness and quality of life. When the spine is misaligned or not functioning optimally, it can contribute to various health problems, including chronic pain, decreased mobility, nerve compression, and even systemic issues. By prioritizing spinal screenings, you are taking a proactive approach to maintain your overall health and well-being. Small changes over time can lead to bigger problems down the line, but regular screenings can prevent this.
Education and Empowerment
Spinal screenings provide an opportunity for education and empowerment. During screenings, healthcare professionals can educate individuals about proper spinal care, posture, ergonomics, and preventive measures. They can also provide personalized recommendations and guidance to help individuals make informed decisions about their spinal health.
It is important to note that spinal screenings should be conducted by qualified healthcare professionals, such as chiropractors or physical therapists, who have expertise in spinal health. They will perform a thorough assessment, which may include a medical history review, physical examination, posture analysis, range of motion assessment, and possibly imaging studies if necessary.
Regular spinal screenings are essential for maintaining optimal spinal health, preventing complications, and promoting overall well-being. By prioritizing these screenings, you are taking an active role in your health, enabling early detection and intervention, and ensuring that your spine remains in good condition for long-term health and quality of life. Schedule Maryland spinal postural screenings today with Mid-Atlantic Spinal Rehab & Chiropractic.