The Spine and Nervous System: A Functional Relationship Beyond Back Pain

Jan 25, 2026

Why the Spine Is More Than Structural

The spine is often thought of as a structural support system, something that allows us to stand upright and move freely. However, its role extends far beyond posture and biomechanics. The spine also protects the spinal cord, a central component of the nervous system responsible for transmitting information between the brain and the body.

Because of this close anatomical and functional relationship, spinal movement, joint health and posture can influence how effectively the nervous system coordinates movement, balance and muscular control.

The Nervous System and Its Relationship to the Spine

The nervous system is divided into:

  • the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord), and

  • the peripheral nervous system (nerves branching throughout the body).

The spinal cord runs through the vertebral canal and acts as a major communication pathway, carrying motor commands from the brain and sensory information back from the body. Any changes in spinal joint movement, posture or surrounding soft tissues may influence how sensory input is processed and how muscles respond during movement.

Research in neurophysiology has shown that spinal joint dysfunction can alter sensory input to the central nervous system, potentially affecting motor control and coordination.

Spinal Movement, Sensory Input and Motor Control

Normal spinal joints contain mechanoreceptors — specialised sensory receptors that provide feedback to the brain about position, movement and load. This feedback is essential for:

  • maintaining balance,

  • coordinating movement, and

  • regulating muscle tone.

When spinal joints become restricted or move suboptimally, the quality of this sensory input may change. Experimental studies have demonstrated that altered spinal input can influence sensorimotor integration, the process by which the brain interprets sensory information to guide movement.

Importantly, this research focuses on movement efficiency and neuromuscular function, not the treatment of systemic disease.

What Does the Research Say About Chiropractic Care?

A growing body of peer-reviewed research has investigated the neurophysiological effects of spinal manipulation. Studies using electroencephalography (EEG), electromyography (EMG) and functional imaging suggest that spinal manipulation may influence:

  • cortical processing of sensory information,

  • muscle activation patterns, and

  • joint position sense.

A 2019 study published in Scientific Reports found measurable changes in brain activity related to sensorimotor integration following spinal manipulation in asymptomatic participants (Lelic et al., 2019). These findings suggest that spinal care may influence how the brain processes movement-related information.

While these findings are promising, researchers consistently emphasise that this is an evolving field and that further high-quality research is required.

Everyday Implications for Movement and Posture

In daily life, efficient communication between the spine and nervous system supports:

  • coordinated movement patterns,

  • postural endurance,

  • balanced muscle activation, and

  • reduced physical strain during work or activity.

Poor posture, prolonged static positions and repetitive movements can all influence spinal joint motion and neuromuscular control. Over time, this may contribute to discomfort, stiffness or inefficient movement strategies.

Supporting spinal health through regular movement, ergonomic awareness and appropriate physical care may help maintain functional capacity and comfort.

Chiropractic Care as Part of Musculoskeletal Support

Chiropractors assess spinal joint mobility, posture and movement patterns with the aim of supporting musculoskeletal function. Care plans may include:

  • manual therapy to address joint mobility,

  • advice on posture and ergonomic habits,

  • prescribed exercises to support movement and stability.

According to the World Health Organization, chiropractic care is focused on the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of mechanical disorders of the musculoskeletal system, particularly the spine, and their effects on general health.

Chiropractic care should always be considered part of a broader, patient-centred approach to health and wellbeing.

When to Seek Professional Advice

Persistent pain, neurological symptoms such as numbness or weakness, or changes that affect daily activities should always be assessed by an appropriately qualified healthcare professional.

The relationship between the spine and nervous system is complex and central to human movement. Emerging research continues to explore how spinal function influences neuromuscular control and sensory processing. Maintaining spinal mobility, posture and movement variety may play an important role in supporting physical function and overall wellbeing.

References