The current healthcare model often lends itself to a narrow perspective of conditions and injuries. There are so many “specialists” that it is easy to lose sight of the big picture. Our bodies are amazingly complex, and the interactions between its various components are essential for full function.
It is very easy as a healthcare consumer to become stuck in isolation mode. Take for example an ankle sprain. Most people are overly aware of the changes to the ankle itself. It may become swollen, painful to move and stand on. We are often aware that as a result of the sprain, we have developed a limp as a natural survival instinct. What we neglect to look at is the effect of the ankle on each and every part of the body from head to toe.
Our bodies are one continuous network of tissues. When we sprain our ankle, our body shifts its weight off the injured limb and to the opposite leg. This causes our centre of mass to change. As a result our spine tilts towards the side of increased pressure. To counter balance this shift, we often see a tilt higher up the spine that changes the position of our head. In an attempt to keep our eyes in line with the horizon, we tilt our head.
It is amazing to see the myriad of changes that take place in the body as a result of a simple ankle injury. The next time you consider an injury that you have or a medical condition, try to look at the bigger picture as its effects are often more widespread than you think!