Kathryn C. Riley, D.C. provides a variety of chiropractic services to patients living in Silicon Valley, CA and around the Bay Area. Dr. Riley offers unique, scientifically- and mathematically-proven spinal alignment techniques that safely and effectively realign the bones of the spine.
Spinal alignment refers to how the head, shoulders, spine, pelvis, knees and ankles line up with each other. The alignment of the spine affects body mechanics, which is the way the head, shoulders, arms, back, hips and legs work together to help the body sit, stand, walk, bend, jump and move.
The spine is made of small bones stacked upon one another somewhat like a deck of cards. These bones, known as vertebrae, allow you to bend, twist and move freely when properly aligned.
If you were to view a properly aligned spine from the front or back, you would see a straight line from top to bottom. When you look at it from the side, you should see an āSā shape formed by three natural curves. These curves provide a more even distribution of body weight, which helps the spine withstand stress. Proper spinal alignment provides immense flexibility and stability to help you move freely and without pain.
Never fibers run from the spinal cord through tiny holes in the vertebrae then out to the rest of the body. When the back is in proper alignment, the nerves carry messages back and forth from the brain to limbs, organs and body tissue. These nerves affect every part of your body. In an improperly aligned spine, misplaced vertebrae press against the nerve. This abnormal stress causes the nerve to malfunction, causing pain, numbness, tingling, weakness and other problems.
Proper spinal alignment also puts less stress on the spine, improves posture and helps you move without pain. Improper alignment can cause pain and dysfunction that prevents you from working, going to school or taking care of your family.
Chiropractors use a variety of treatments to realign spines, including:
If you have questions regarding your specific plan, please call our office.