Boston GreenScene: ENERGY: Create, Conserve, and Curve

by Dr. Dermot Jinks

In physics, energy is defined as the ability to do work. As a work-oriented culture, we focus on the creation, consumption and – more recently – the conservation of energy. Regarding the health of our planet, our ability to change patterns of consumption, create alternative and renewable sources of energy, and act responsibly in our energy efforts will determine our success in achieving sustainable work/living. Regarding the health of our body, we must consider biochemistry and biomechanics in how we create, consume, and conserve energy.

Energy & Biochemistry

Biochemistry in energy production is amazing. The oxidative processes found in breaking down glucose, the complexity of the Krebs Cycle, and the ‘renewable’ quality of changing adenosine diphosphate (ADP) to adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and back within our internal power plant are incredible. To create this energy, we understand the value of “clean fuel” – organic food sources, less preservatives/additives in our foods, and clean water. In this, a correlation between our planet and our bodies are strikingly similar.

Like the planet, our bodies are commonly exposed to chemicals that interfere with natural processes/systems for the sake of comfort. For example, anti-histamine is a widely used over-the-counter medication/drug/chemical that interrupts the ability to produce histamine. Histamine is a neurotransmitter derived from the amino acid histidine. Histamine serves by helping mediate attention and arousal as well as involvement in inflammatory immune responses associated with allergic reactions and tissue damage. These are natural and necessary functions within the body. Concerns over long term use of anti-histamines include loss or altered biochemical production, weakened immune function, and, of course, the ever present threat of ‘side effects’ – where organs and tissues that were not intended to be affected by a medication/chemical are - and suffer for it.

Energy & Biomechanics

Another important aspect in the creation of energy in the human body is biomechanics. The most common area biomechanics is addressed is in exercise. In exercise we have choices from A (Ashtanga yoga) to Z (Zumba aerobics) that give opportunity – through the creation and use of energy - to control weight, maintain cardiovascular/respiratory function, create strength, and produce endorphins, enkephalins and other beneficial biochemicals. Proper attention to form (biomechanics) in these varied exercises is important and influences our energy production. Have you ever noticed that folks that exercise regularly talk about how much energy they get from this effort?

But what about conserving the energy we create? How do we get the most out of our efforts in diet and exercise? There is an old adage that says that ‘structure dictates function.’ On the other side of that same coin would be a logical deduction that bad structure dictates bad function, lost efficiency, and a loss of valuable energy. The structure where I see the most ‘waste’ is the spine. (I’m a chiropractor, what did you think I was going to say?)

The alignment of the spine dictates it’s function and the function of associated joints & muscles. For example, the shoulder is in large part secured by a group of muscles - many that directly or indirectly connect to the spine. If the spine is misaligned in the areas of these connections it will affect their function. Fortunately, the alignment of the spine doesn’t have to be perfect and it can be changed/influenced. Look in any Anatomy & Physiology text and you will see correct vertical alignment of the spine from the front or back and an important series of forward (lordotic) and backward (kyphotic) bending curves.

These curves have anatomical names and unique functions:

Cervical/Neck Spine

The cervical/neck spine has a lordotic curve that allows for the wide range of motion the neck has and protection of the largest section of the spinal cord.
The thoracic/chest region spine has a kyphotic curve that allows for attachment of the ribs to these bones (vertebrae) for the protection of important and fragile internal organs like the heart and lungs. Movement in this part of the spine is minimal and, conversely, so is risk of misalignment.

Lumbar/Low Back Spine

The lumbar/lower back has a lordotic curve that is designed to carry the brunt of our weight, serve as important attachment site of muscles and allow for the coordination of movement of the back, pelvis and legs.

All areas of the spine have a direct mechanical relationship to the spinal cord and spinal nerve roots. In their protection of delicate neurology, one of the most important functions of spinal curves is the dispersion of force in the spine. In practice, I often refer to these curves as the spinal ‘shock absorbers.’ (See Ideal Spine for more information.)

Energy – Curve to Conserve

One of the most important aspects of conserving fuel in your car is keeping it in good working order. Something as simple as not having your tires properly inflated can cause you to waste gas. It is important to keep your spinal curves/shock absorbers in good working order. Like air pressure in your tire, you can ‘gauge’ the pressure in your spine. Check your spinal range of motion - extend, flex, laterally bend and rotate your neck and lower back into the fullest range of motion. Did you meet resistance, stiffness, or even pain? If so, these are indications that your spinal curves/shock absorbers need a tune up.

Conserving the resources of our planet that produce energy starts with education. Conserving the resources within our body that contribute to creation, consumption and conservation of energy starts the same way – learn more about your spinal curves.