Expert: Dr. Paul Newhart - 11/1/2007

Question
QUESTION: Hello Doctor,
I am 21 years old and I just recently found out from a chiropractor that the top of my spine ( behind the neck ) is out of place and arches off to the right.  I can NEVER get a good night's sleep, I'm a very light sleeper and always wake up in the morning tired, I come to accept this till I found this little fact out about my spine which could be causing the problem.

I also have unusual acne breakouts on my shoulders and no where else, hear my neck clicking everytime I turn it, and also get very nervous at times among other things.

I am very worried I will have this condition forever, can chiropractic care realign my spine?  I would be willing to go to surgery if need be...  can I fully recover?  What would you recommend I do?

ANSWER: The least invasive path, chiropractic, is your best bet.  Your body will put the spine where it needs to be, once the chiropractor starts working on it.  We help your body to realize it's full potential by removing misalignments (subluxations) which are hindrances.  Once it is removed, you will be amazed at what your body will do with the curvature, your sleeping habits, etc.

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: I see... after treatment is it possible to fully restore my spine or will I always have to keep coming back for chiropractic visits?

Answer
That is a very common question..."Why do I have to keep going back?"  The answer has a few parts:  The act of doing anything, eating, breathing, etc., can all lead to misalignments.  Not to mention stress, whether from work, exercise, etc.  Also, when you are in proper alignment, you know how "good" feels, and you will know when it misaligns.  Misalignments should be addressed to stop further problems.