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Thoracic, Lumbar, and Digestive Health

Our focus for this month is where the Thoracic Spine and Lumbar Spine meet.

Did you know nerves that come from the spine control part of the GI tract? Did you know those particular nerves exit the spine where the mid-back (thoracic spine) and the low-back (lumbar spine) meet? When the muscles that attach to that area of the spine are tight, it can reduce joint movement causing stiffness. Some people say things like “it feels like my kidneys hurt.” While others say they feel the discomfort in their abdomen.  The muscle often responsible for that sensation is the quadratus lumborum (“QL”). This seated side stretch can help lengthen that muscle to allow for improved joint mobility and a better feeling all around.

Did you know that your spine moves completely different in the mid-back compared to the low-back? The joints between the vertebrae change by 90 degrees! The difference dictates the different movement patterns for each area. The mid-back (thoracic spine) performs mostly flexion and extension (bending forward and backward). The low-back (lumbar spine) performs mostly rotation (turning side to side). We recommend these two exercises for this area of the spine!

 

Digestion- We are in the thick of cold and flu season… and it’s been a bad season! Did you know our digestive tract houses 70% of our immune system? In addition, having an unhappy gut can cause referral pain into the thoracic and lumbar spine. Making healthy dietary choices is a key component to staying healthy and avoiding pain. But sometimes we need a little help!

Feeling constipated? Gastro-Fiber helps maintain a healthy intestinal environment, and cleanses the gastrointestinal tract. It also contains Fennel, which helps relieve gas, abdominal cramps, and occasional indigestion.

 

Feeling indigestion? Multizyme helps support the proper breakdown of proteins, carbohydrates, and fats. Multizyme also contains enzymes to help support the gastric and intestinal phases of digestion.

 

 

Feeling bloated? ProSynbiotic supports gut flora and overall intestinal health. Improves nutrient digestion and absorption.

 

Try these products today! They are are available at Body Logic.  We can help guide you to which one would be most beneficial.  For more information on gut health and other home remedies, check out this month’s Essential Oils Class! Click here to register today!