Zero Gravity: Space-Age Technology Benefits the Spine

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Zero Gravity: Space-Age Technology Benefits the Spine

You've had a hard day at work, you're tired, and your neck, back, and legs are stiff. All you need to feel better is a little time to flop down on the couch and relax. While lying on a couch or slouching in an easy chair may seem comfortable, those positions are really not relaxing your spine. In fact, they may actually be requiring your spinal muscles to work even harder.

Stay Neutral
We have all heard the benefits of good posture, particularly when standing, sitting, and lifting. Good posture occurs when the spine is in a neutral position - when the normal curves of the spine have the least amount of stresses upon them and support is evenly maintained by the discs, bones, and ligaments.

Good body mechanics are ways to maintain a neutral spine while going about your activities of daily living. For example:

Standing: keep your feet slightly apart with the knees straight and the chin tucked in. Shift weight from one foot to the other regularly.

Sitting: sit with your back straight, your shoulders back, and your buttocks against the back of the chair. Keep your feet flat on the floor.

Lifting: stand close to the object with your feet flat on the floor. Face the object directly to avoid twisting as you lift. Bend your knees and lift carefully, keeping the object as close to your body as you can. If possible, keep your elbows bent while carrying heavy object.

Sleeping: when we lie down, the body is affected by gravity differently than when we are upright. A good mattress allows you to maintain a neutral position; muscles are relaxed, and sleep is more refreshing.

Time to Relax
But what about when we are relaxing? Is the neutral spine position important then too? Spine specialists agree, even though you may feel relaxed when you lie on your couch, there are still pressures being exerted on your spine causing your muscles to keep working.

The latest trend in helping people relax comfortably and safely is the zero gravity recliner. Sometimes called "anti-gravity," these ergonomically designed reclining chairs are designed to position the body so that a person can sit or lie back while relieving pressure on the spine.

Space-Age Technology
The concept of the zero gravity recliner actually came from NASA and the experiences of astronauts who have spent many hours in space. During take-off, astronauts recline with their feet higher than their hearts. This zero gravity position reduces the amount of force exerted on the spine by the extreme speed at which they travel.

In an upright standing or sitting position, gravity places pressure on the spine causing discs to compress and spinal muscles to contract to maintain balance. For a person with back pain, this can be extremely uncomfortable. When gravity is neutralized, muscles rest and discs return to their normal size and shape. This is why you are taller first thing in the morning than you are at the end of the day - because your discs have been relieved of the pressures of gravity and the weight of your body.

Zero gravity recliners are designed to relieve the body of the pressures experienced in an upright position. By extending the lower legs above the heart, the spine is allowed to decompress. This position has several benefits including:

·	Less pressure on the spine

·	Reduced muscle tension

·	Less pressure on the heart and expanded lung capacity

·	Increased circulation and increased blood oxygen levels

Relax The Back has several zero gravity recliners including fully upholstered recliners in traditional and contemporary designs as well as recliners made for outdoor use. These recliners are designed to follow the natural curves of the spine while providing full lumbar and upper back support. They move easily from full upright position to full recline, making it easy to get in and out. Other features include neck rolls, fully articulated headrests that adjust forward for reading, and built-in massage. Relax The Back has also incorporated the zero gravity concept into several other products including adjustable beds and wedge systems.

Good Posture Even when Relaxing
Maintaining good posture, even when watching TV or reading a book is not only good for your spine, it's now made easier with zero gravity recliners. Even if you don't have one of these chairs, being aware of how you position yourself when relaxing, and correcting it when you can, will allow your spine to relax along with the rest of you!

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