How Excess Weight Impacts Spinal Health: Solutions from a Georgetown Chiropractor

Maintaining a healthy spine is fundamental to overall wellness, but many people overlook the significant role that body weight plays in spinal alignment and function. At Thomas Back & Body in Georgetown, Ontario, our chiropractic team educates patients about the connection between excess weight and spinal health, and provides personalized strategies to help restore spinal balance and relieve pain.

How Excess Weight Impacts Spinal Health

Excess weight, especially around the abdomen, increases the mechanical load placed on the spine, which can accelerate wear and tear on spinal structures. Scientific studies show that for every additional pound carried, four to six pounds of force are added to the spine’s joints—particularly in the lower back. This increased force compresses intervertebral discs, leading to a faster rate of degeneration and an elevated risk of herniated discs, chronic pain, and mobility limitations (Spine.md, 2025). Additionally, excess weight shifts the body’s center of gravity, forcing the spine to compensate by curving more deeply in the lumbar region. This postural adjustment disrupts spinal alignment, causing muscular imbalances, fatigue, and ultimately, persistent discomfort (Vismara et al., 2010).

Common Conditions Linked to Weight and Spine Health

How does excess weight impact spinal health? Patients who are overweight or obese face higher risks of several spinal conditions:

• Herniated Discs: Added weight increases the pressure on discs, making them more vulnerable to bulging or rupturing, which pinches nerves and triggers pain.

• Sciatica: The risk of sciatic nerve compression is amplified by excess weight, often due to herniated discs or bone spurs, resulting in radiating pain from the lower back through the legs.

• Facet Joint Osteoarthritis: Carrying extra pounds quickens the degeneration of facet joints in the spine, leading to stiffness, inflammation, and decreased mobility (Sheng et al., 2017).

Chiropractic Solutions for Weight-Related Spinal Issues in Georgetown

At Thomas Back & Body, our chiropractors use a holistic approach to address spine issues linked to excess weight. Chiropractic adjustments and manual therapies can relieve joint and muscle tension, restore natural spinal curvature, and enhance overall function. Patients often benefit from a tailored treatment plan that combines spinal adjustments with exercise guidance, nutritional counseling, and soft tissue therapies.

Our clinic supports patients with:

• Expert chiropractic adjustments, cupping therapy, myofascial release, etc.

• Customized rehabilitation exercises to strengthen key muscle groups and improve posture.

• Education on proper movement and ergonomics to reduce daily spinal strain.

Take the First Step Towards Spinal Health

If excess weight has begun affecting your spinal health, early intervention is key. A chiropractic assessment can identify underlying spinal issues and help develop a targeted plan to relieve pain and optimize well-being. Book an initial appointment with Thomas Back & Body in Georgetown to begin your journey toward lasting spinal health and improved quality of life.

References

Spine.md. (2025, July 27). The impact of weight on spinal health. https://www.spine.md/insights/impact-weight-spinal-health

Vismara, L., et al. (2010). Effect of obesity and low back pain on spinal mobility. Journal of NeuroEngineering and Rehabilitation, 7(3), 2-8. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2821381/