Undoubtedly, the great percentage of postural defects, or slumped
states, are dependent, directly or indirectly, upon weaknesses in the
spinal column. As was seen, round shoulders, the prominent hip, or
the pendulous abdomen, are often initiated by spinal deviations and
deformities, so naturally spinal column curvatures are a most fruitful
source of direct defects of posture.
It is somewhat uncommon to find an anatomically true spinal column,
although this does not preclude that one’s posture is defective, for
often through pride and effort one may consciously overcome a defective
posture.
It is the purpose here to offer a few suggestions relative to the
development of a greater symmetry of the body. Nearly every one is
more or less interested in physical exercises and development. And
especially to those of sedentary habits do means and methods of
exercise appeal. Curiously enough, in a way, nearly every layman looks
upon defects in posture, symmetry and stature as an effect arising
from lack of, or improper, exercise. He seems to be imbued with the
idea that the body in most instances is practically permanent in
construction and when irregularities in figure occur certain exercises
will correct the defect. Thus have individuals been prone to look upon
osteopathy as a method of passive exercises. Osteopaths should believe
most thoroughly in exercising, personal hygiene, etc., but the idea of
osteopathic manipulation is primarily one of anatomical reconstruction,
and not muscular development alone. The work of the osteopath is
to readjust or to re-mold the body framework and the many tissues
that clothe it so that normality of function may predominate. The
manipulation is not routinism but mechanical rebuilding of the tissues
so that perfect freedom of vital forces may be forthcoming.
The spinal column presents the most frequent as well as many
extremely interesting phases for re-correcting work. The number of
abnormalities as to contour to which it is subject are many and varied.
Emphasis should be placed upon possible congenital abnormalities and
developmental defects as sources of certain derangements. Any variation
or combination of variations with the normal or physiological curves
constitutes an abnormality or pathological curve. And as a consequence
defective posture, unless thoroughly compensated, is readily initiated.
Not only may the normal curves be exaggerated, lessened, eliminated or
reversed, but lateral and rotary curvatures are of frequent occurrence.
Curvatures involving the cervical region to the extent of producing
noticeable defects of posture are principally lateral deviations of
several vertebræ. Wry-neck is probably the most noticeable disturbance.
The head and neck being drawn and slightly twisted to one side is a
defect that is both noticeable and painful. Another common source
of postural affection is an exaggerated forward curving of the neck
vertebræ. This produces a stooped appearance of the neck.
The dorsal vertebræ are often curved backward too far. This produces
roundness with too decided a fullness of the upper back and shoulders.
The chest may be somewhat flattened as a secondary effect but not
necessarily so. Neither are the shoulders what may be termed “round
shoulders,” still such a condition may occur, for “round shoulders”
are more often caused by a backward swerve of the column at the waist
line. There is often a shortening of the anterior structures which pull
the point of the shoulders forward. Forcing them backward will aid in
correcting the fault. The dorsal vertebræ may be forward from what is
termed a “straight” spine; this results in an exaggerated “braced” back
position. Then lateral curvatures of the dorsal spine are common, which
in time may develop into a rotary curvature; that is, the vertebræ are
actually rotated on their axes. Lateral curvatures of the dorsal spine
are slow and difficult to correct, for the ribs complicate matters very
materially. Then, also, the vertebræ are apt to be deformed.
Curvatures of the lumbar spine, whether posterior, lateral or anterior,
are common. Both dorsal and lumbar curvatures, as any one can readily
see, are extremely common sources of postural defects. Erect positions
of the body are maintained through the support of the dorsal and lumbar
vertebræ. Stooped shoulders, one shoulder lower than its fellow,
sitting humped over, sitting on the sacrum instead of squarely on the
buttocks, the prominent hip, standing first on one foot and then on
the other in order to rest the back, and the many allied variations of
incorrect postures are largely dependent on the condition of the lumbar
and dorsal spines.
It is not to be supposed that the above defects are the only ailments
and disturbances that spinal curvatures cause, for, indeed, the
defective posture may be by far a minor consideration. Disorders of
body functions and affection of organic life itself are very often
traced to the malaligned vertebræ.
The =causes= of spinal curvatures are many, but without question one
of the most common causes is mechanical wrenching or twisting of
the column from falls, jars, etc. Often the strain or sprain of the
sections are readjusted through the inherent powers of the body, but
there is a point where _vis medicatrix naturae_ requires extraneous
help to correct the perversion; and, naturally, such aid, by virtue of
the cause of the disturbance, should be physical force mechanically
applied. Other causes of spinal curvatures are contractions of muscles
on one side of the column or paralysis of the muscles on one side;
in either instance, muscular action is greater on one side than the
other, which easily results in a curvature. This imbalance of muscular
tension, whether due to the above or other sources such as overfatigue
or various deleterious habits, is a prolific source of lesions. And
among still other causes may be noted, bone diseases of the spinal
column, compensatory deformities, and constitutional weakening and
irritating diseases. Also, some occupations predispose to certain
curvatures.
One can readily see that the =treatment= which is directed specifically
to the cause of the vertebral deviation would be the most scientific.
This is just what osteopathic work implies, direct readjustment of the
sections at fault—not exercises, or routine stretching, or braces;
although these latter methods may in some cases have their place as
secondary aids. Of course exercises are usually physiological and may
be employed, in many instances, as an auxiliary. Care should be taken
to eradicate infectious foci when present.
Where curvatures are extreme, complicating and deforming the ribs, and
absorbing the bodies of the vertebræ so they become wedge-shaped, and
resulting from abscesses, no one can expect within reason to absolutely
correct the posture. Some aggressive work can be accomplished, but a
perfect symmetry will not be forthcoming. It may be well to emphasize
again that where the ribs are involved the osteopath is not contending
with the deformity of the spinal column alone, but in addition the
entire transverse area of the body. (See also Spinal Curvatures).
=Conclusion.=—In concluding this rapid survey of a number of postural
defects the principal lesson to be drawn is not one of developing the
physique and thus perfecting a better posture, so much as curtailing
and eliminating insidious beginnings of disease. These little ailments
and deformities, of which postural defects may be the most noticeable,
are so often the inception of more serious disorders. The anatomical
structure being maladjusted, -aligned, or -positioned, easily and
readily leads to consequences that require much time and patience to
overcome.
Poise of body represents much to every one. Poise or correct posture
coupled with careful and methodical exercise and correct breathing are
material aids in constructive development, as well as in eliminating
disease, for not alone may abdominal, pelvic and thoracic integrity be
benefited, but the upper respiratory tract may be toned.
The most important goal that osteopathic science and art is striving
for is that of a fully developed and rounded out prophylaxis or
preventive treatment. When the public realizes that the proverbial
ounce of prevention is an established medical reality then it can truly
be said our science has reached its ultimate good. To those who are
familiar with osteopathic theory, facts, and development, it is an
open secret that this school holds the key to successful preventive
treatment. The time is rapidly approaching when the actual lessening
of diseases will be an established fact. Then will be the universal
practice of the layman going periodically to his osteopath to see if
there are any small or insidious beginnings of disorder or disease.
Not only must the many deleterious habits and errors of the daily
regimen be corrected, but after environmental, physiological and
structural adjustment, in so far as possible, has been attained, a
daily regimen to maintain the normal should be instituted.