Massage Therapy Journal Summer 2024

48 • Massage Therapy Journal

AMTA Continuing Education

The Potential Impact of Exaggerated Spinal Curves

There are some important considerations for prevention and management of TNS postural deviations that massage therapists should consider when helping clients and providing them tips for how they might extend the benefits of massage therapy, including: • Awareness: Regular self-checks and awareness of posture are crucial for prevention. Ergonomic adjustments in workspaces can also promote proper alignment. • Exercise: Strengthening exercises targeting core muscles and those supporting the spine can help maintain proper posture and spinal alignment. • Stretching: Incorporating flexibility exercises to address muscle tightness can help maintain a healthy range of motion. • Ergonomics: Ensuring proper ergonomics in work and daily activities can minimize the risk of developing poor posture. • Medical evaluation:

The spine has natural curves that help distribute forces and maintain balance. However, when these curves become exaggerated, it can lead to various issues. There are three main spinal curves: cervical (neck), thoracic (mid-back) and lumbar (lower back). Exaggeration in any of these curves can have distinct consequences: Lordosis (exaggerated lumbar curve) • Causes : Often associated with excessive arching of the lower back, it can result from factors like poor posture, muscle imbalances, obesity or certain medical conditions. • Consequences : Exaggerated

The spine has natural curves that help distribute forces and maintain balance. However, when these curves become exaggerated, it can lead to various issues.

lumbar lordosis can lead to lower back pain, increased pressure on lumbar discs and an altered gait. Kyphosis (exaggerated thoracic curve) • Causes : Rounded upper back and shoulders characterize kyphosis. It may result from poor posture, prolonged sitting, osteoporosis or other structural issues. • Consequences : Exaggerated

Remember, clients with persistent pain, unusual sensitivity or concerns about their spines should be referred out for medical evaluation and possible imaging. This will help you develop safer, more therapeutic treatments for them when they return, and will help them feel empowered and knowledgeable about their own health. This excess weight puts considerable strain

thoracic kyphosis can cause upper back pain, reduced lung capacity, and impact the alignment of the head and neck. Scoliosis (lateral S-shaped curve) • Causes : Scoliosis involves a lateral curvature of the spine and may be congenital or develop during growth. It can also result from muscle imbalances or neuromuscular conditions. • Consequences : Scoliosis can lead to uneven shoulders, hips and leg lengths. Severe cases may affect organ function and cause respiratory issues.

Lemurik / Shutterstock.com

on the cervical spine, leading to stress and potential injuries to neck muscles, tendons and ligaments. Consequently, the chest, upper back, and shoulders become involved, and the weight of the cranium is redistributed. Muscle Review: Muscles Commonly Involved in TNS Each muscle involved in TNS is listed in the chart (right) with their origin and insertion point(s) noted.

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