C3, C4, C5 Keeps the Diaphragm Alive

This month, I’ll be continuing our Spine Education Series delving into the remarkable C3, C4, and C5 vertebrae. As a team, they play a vital role in your overall health. (As I am hoping you are seeing that ALL of your vertebrae do!)

"C3, 4, and 5 keeps the diaphragm alive." This famous saying perfectly encapsulates the importance of these vertebrae. Situated within the cervical spine, this Super-Trio holds the key to serving your phrenic nerve system and sustaining the function of your diaphragm – the powerhouse of your breath.

Often when patients come in, adjustments give them the sensation of being able to breathe deeper and fuller and that’s because they are! Simply put, subluxations are like kinks and blockages that start to accumulate toxins and waste which impair the body and can cause stagnation of energy and eventual chronic or even life-threatening diseases. In addition to breathing better after an adjustment, patient’s often experience their senses coming alive. This can result immediately in better eyesight, a sudden surge in energy, mental clarity, and even a spike in positive emotions.

THIS ILLUSTRATION IS DESIGNED TO HELP YOU UNDERSTAND WHAT HAPPENS WHEN YOUR C3, C4, & C5 ARE OUT OF ALIGNMENT:

 THIS ILLUSTRATION IS DESIGNED TO HELP YOU UNDERSTAND WHAT HAPPENS WHEN YOUR C3, C4, & C5 ARE IN ALIGNMENT:

​The phrenic nerve system located in your cervical spine is like the maestro of your breathing orchestra. It sends crucial electrical commands to your diaphragm that ensure a smooth rhythm as you inhale and exhale. The harmony between that Super-Trio of vertebrae impacts your entire body - everything from oxygenating your brain and cells to regulating your nervous system to harmonising all the organs associated with breathing. So ultimately, it is vital that you keep your Super-Trio in alignment. 
 
I have seen the following symptoms stem from C3, C4, and C5 misalignment:

• Shortness of breath;
• Dizziness or lightheadedness during exertion;
• Lack of focus, brain fog;
• Anxiousness and stress;
• Blurry vision, recurring headaches;
• Depressed mood, low energy;
• Chronic neck and shoulder pain and stiffness.

 
And that’s just the symptoms that you CAN see. Sometimes symptoms are underlying for a long time until they become visible. Which is why it is important to get your spine checked regularly to ensure your Super-Trio, C3, C4, and C5 are working in harmony for your breathing and overall health!