Gender Differences in Spines

New research casts a light on the differences between boys’ and girls’ vertebrae (the small bones that make up the spine), which are present at birth. When researchers used magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to measure newborns’ vertebrae, they found that the females’ cross sectional dimensions were 10.6 percent smaller, on average, than the boys’ dimensions. Humans are the only mammals in which these differences are seen. Thought to arise from complex interactions of sex steroids, growth hormone, and insulin-like growth factor, the differences are likely to have developed to allow females to walk and maintain their center of gravity while pregnant. Full understanding of women’s spinal structure helps chiropractors better treat their pregnant female patients.

We help newborns, infants, teenagers, adults and seniors. We will try to help you understand your choices about chiropractic and let you make an informed choice. We’re located at 200 Queen St., Southington. Chiropractic works! Call us at 860-621-2225 and start feeling better. We offer affordable healthcare for the whole family.

P.S. While females’ spines generally exhibit greater flexibility than men’s spines, women’s propensity for accumulating less bone mass places them at higher risk for scoliosis and osteoporosis.  The answers you need, the care you deserve.