12/08/2023
Have you ever been told that you have kyphosis, lordosis, or scoliosis and that it is the cause of your pain? From a Clinical Somatics perspective all three of these conditions are examples of Sensory Motor Amnesia.
Let’s break them down:
Kyphosis is defined by the Mayo Clinic as “an exaggerated, forward rounding of the upper back.” What creates that rounded upper back and hunched posture? The Red Light Reflex of protection, worry, anxiety – and more often these days, computer work. When the muscles of the front of the body are tight they shorten the front and draw our chest and ribcage down and our pelvis under. These muscles bring our face forward and round our shoulders.
Lordosis is the exact opposite. It is a habituation of the Green Light Reflex of go-go-go and forward action. We all have a natural lumbar curve, yet when it is pronounced it is called a “swayback.” These overly tight back muscles that won’t fully release contribute to chronic low back pain and are very common in athletes, dancers, and those who are active and on their feet getting things done.
Scoliosis is a sideways curvature of the spine. It is often diagnosed in adolescence, though “adult-onset scoliosis” is something we hear more and more about. For many, scoliosis can have its roots in a habituated Trauma Reflex. This reflex is evoked by an accident, injury, one-sided surgery, fall, or repetitive one-sided activity. When the muscles on one side of the body are tighter than those on the other side these muscles (which attach to the spine) can pull the spine out of alignment, creating a curvature.
The good news is that pandiculation and Somatic Movements can help restore balance and symmetry to the entire body so you can move pain-free, with ease and freedom.
Join the next session of Somatic Movement classes starting January 9 or 11th.
For more information visit www.youryogasarnia.com