When you think of spinal flexibility, do you picture someone doing an impressive backbend? I know I used to! But don’t worry—no contortionist skills are required to improve your spinal flexibility or your arterial health.

Research shows a fascinating link between spinal flexibility and arterial health. As dental hygienists, our bodies endure unique physical demands, making it even more important to focus on spinal mobility and circulation. Let’s dive into why this matters for you.

Why Spinal Flexibility Matters for Hygienists

A flexible spine supports better blood flow and circulation, which keeps your arteries clear and helps nutrients and oxygen flow efficiently to your tissues. As hygienists, we often spend long hours in static postures, and the benefits of spinal flexibility go even further.

When your spine moves freely without restrictions, you reduce tension and compression caused by the forward-leaning positions common in clinical work. This helps prevent strain on your arteries and improves overall cardiovascular health.

Understanding Spinal Flexibility

The spine moves in six directions:

• Flexion (bending forward)
• Extension (bending backward)
• Lateral bending (to the right and left)
• Twisting (to the right and left)

Spinal flexibility means being able to move comfortably through all six directions with a good range of motion and no discomfort.

For hygienists, spinal alignment is also critical. Good posture not only supports your spine but also ensures smooth blood flow. On the flip side, poor posture—like hunching over patients or craning your neck—can compress arteries and inhibit circulation, similar to a kinked garden hose.

Spinal Flexibility and Arterial Health

A rigid spine can lead to limited mobility and decreased circulation, potentially contributing to issues like high blood pressure and reduced oxygen supply to your organs. Over time, this increases the risk of cardiovascular conditions such as heart disease and strokes.

For dental hygienists, maintaining spinal flexibility helps counteract the effects of prolonged sitting or standing in awkward positions. Stretching and mobility work not only improve your spine’s function but also promote the health of your arteries, making them less prone to becoming stiff or brittle.

How Hygienists Can Improve Spinal Flexibility

1. Incorporate Movement Into Your Day

Activities like yoga, Pilates, or functional strength training are fantastic for spinal flexibility. They also help counteract the repetitive motions and static postures of dental work.

Even simple activities like walking, swimming, or a dynamic warmup before your workday can increase your spinal mobility and promote better circulation.

2. Stretch Regularly

Focus on spinal flexibility exercises like gentle twists, forward folds, and backbends. And don’t worry—you don’t need to master a full wheel pose!

3. Check Your Ergonomics

If you know me, you know that I don’t tend to rely on ergonomics alone. But they’re still important. Take time to check that your operatory setup supports your posture. Adjust your chair, patient positioning (as best as they’ll allow 😉), and (hopefully!) loupes to minimize strain on your neck and spine.

4. Breathe Mindfully

Deep, diaphragmatic breathing isn’t just for calming nerves before a difficult patient appointment. It also improves oxygenation and supports spinal mobility.

When practicing a twist or backbend, try inhaling to create space in your torso and exhaling as you deepen the movement. Over time, this will increase your range of motion and flexibility.

The Takeaway

Spinal flexibility is essential—not just for hygienists, but for anyone looking to maintain a strong, healthy body. For hygienists though, it can be the key to preventing discomfort, improving posture, and even supporting your cardiovascular health.

So, move your spine in all six directions, stay mindful of your posture, and take a deep breath. A few simple adjustments can help you feel better at work—and beyond.