Digestive Issues? Your Spine Might Be Part of the Problem

HELPFUL TIPS
July 7, 2025

The Gut–Spine Connection

Your digestive system is controlled by your autonomic nervous system, which sends signals from your brain to your stomach, intestines, and organs. That communication pathway runs through your spinal cord.

When the spine is misaligned—especially in the mid-back (thoracic) or lower back (lumbar)—it can interfere with these signals, leading to:

  • Sluggish digestion
  • Acid reflux or GERD
  • Bloating and gas
  • Constipation
  • Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)-like symptoms
  • Poor nutrient absorption

In other words: when your spine is out of sync, your gut can be too.


How Chiropractic Care Supports Digestive Health

At SISU Spine & Rehab, we take a nervous-system-first approach to digestive concerns. We focus on restoring balance to your spine so your body—and your gut—can function more efficiently.

1. Spinal Adjustments for Nerve Flow

Gentle chiropractic adjustments reduce interference in the spinal nerves that control digestion, especially in the thoracic and lumbar regions. This can improve intestinal motility, enzyme release, and organ coordination.

2. Postural Correction

Poor posture (like slouching or forward head tilt) can compress the stomach and digestive organs. We help you sit, stand, and move in ways that relieve pressure and allow your digestive system to work better.

3. Diaphragm & Rib Cage Mobility

Breathing and digestion go hand in hand. We assess and release tension in the diaphragm and rib cage so you can breathe fully and activate your core properly—two essential pieces of healthy digestion.

4. Lifestyle Coaching

We’ll guide you on simple movement, hydration, and eating posture habits that improve digestion and reduce symptoms like bloating and reflux.

“I came to SISU for back pain but mentioned my digestion was off, too—bloating, gas, just sluggish. After a few adjustments, I noticed I wasn’t so bloated after meals, and I was more regular. I had no idea it was connected to my spine!”

— Laura G., Springboro


Digestive Symptoms That May Be Linked to Your Spine

  • Acid reflux or heartburn
  • Bloating or abdominal pressure
  • Slow digestion or irregularity
  • Cramping or gas after meals
  • Feeling full quickly
  • Constipation or diarrhea
  • Tension in the mid-back after eating

If you’ve tried dietary changes, medication, or supplements and haven’t seen results, your nervous system may need attention.


Bonus: Your Gut Affects Your Mood, Too

The gut and brain are closely connected. When your digestion is off, your energy, focus, and mood can follow. Supporting spinal alignment and nerve function can improve not just your digestion—but your whole sense of well-being.


FAQ

Q: Can chiropractic care cure digestive issues?

A: While it’s not a cure, chiropractic care can optimize the conditions for your digestive system to function properly—by improving communication between your brain and gut.

Q: Do I need to see a GI specialist first?

A: If you have serious digestive symptoms, it’s always a good idea to consult your primary doctor. But many patients add chiropractic to their care plan for natural support and symptom relief.


Final Thoughts: Gut Health Starts at the Spine

Realign. Relax. Digest Better.

If your digestion is off, don’t just treat the symptoms—treat the system. At SISU Spine & Rehab, we help you reconnect your brain and body, release pressure on your gut, and get back to feeling light, energized, and balanced.

📞 Call (513) 614-2151

📍 Visit us in Springboro, OH

🌐 Book your chiropractic digestion consult at www.sisurehabilitation.com