Feldenkrais for Spinal Pain: vector mobilization

The above illustrations describe a model for a mechanism for spinal pain and instability. Moving the head in any direction (side bend illustrated) as an isolated motion without connection to the underlying spinal column increases the demand on the local vertebrae. To cope with this extra demand the associated accessory movements is increased creating an instability at that level.

Back pain, neck pain, spinal stiffness and weakness, poor balance and posture problems can all be improved by learning to be aware of and coordinate the entire spine well.

The secret to a flexible painfree powerful spine is learning:

• power from the pelvis
• a mobile thorax
• pelvis-thorax connection
• one long functioning unit for spinal control

These are the basics and just a beginning.

Shown above is one simple coordination of pelvis, chest, spine and head in one plane of movement. Completing more motion combinations in different planes of movement adds flexibility, power and agility to your spinal function.

Treating pain and pathology alone is not enough. Restoring proper coordinated function to the whole spine is a key to painfree powerful function. It is also the way to free chronic pain otherwise stubborn and untreatable.