Proprioception is defined as the subconscious sense of one's posture which is partially dependent upon nerve terminals in the bottom of the foot.



Improvement in posture initiated by Proprioceptive Stimulation - the entire posture shifted posteriorly.  The forward head position is reduced along with the anterior rotation of the innominates.

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Proprioceptive Stimulation Can Help You

Proprioceptive Stimulation affects the body in many positive ways.

Chronic Pain - Foot, Knee, Back, Neck, and Jaw

Proprioceptive stimulation repositions the posture into a more correct alignment (see Figure Right). This reduces the stress on the muscles, which allows them to heal (Rothbart and Esterbrook 1988, Rothbart and Yerratt 1995).

Respiratory

By straightening the shoulders, the ribcage is opened and pressure is taken off the lungs. This allows for easier breathing.

Intestinal and Bowel

Proprioceptive stimulation reverses the anterior rotation of the innominates (hips), which in turn, positionally decompresses the intestines and colon. Waste products pass through the colon more quickly and efficiently, which can reduce the pain associated with gastro-intestinal distress.

Historical Note:

 

Early in the 20th century, physicians frequently reported severe abdominal symptoms associated with a malposition (incorrect alignment) of the stomach and bowels.  If severe enough, the intestinal lining was surgically stapled to reestablish a more correct alignment of the viscera  (Horsely et al, 1953; Gedingfield et al, 1930). 

In the 21st century, Posturologists have linked severe gastrointestinal symptoms to poor posture (the alignment of the skeletal frame determines the alignment of the internal organs).  Improving posture can, in many cases, resolve severe stomach and bowel problems.

 

     Gedingfield H, Milford Humphry 1930. Viscerptosis and Allied Abdominal Conditions Associated with Chronic Invalidism.  Oxford Univ Press, London, pp 135.

     Horsely GW, Bigger IA 1953. Operative Surgery, 6th edition. CV Mosby Co, St Lewis, pp 1206. 

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

Proprioceptive stimulation improves posture, which in turn,  reduces hypertonicity (tightness and strain) within the postural muscles. Lactic acid is reduced. The body has more energy. (Rothbart B. Pressure Plate Analysis of Medial Column Insoles. Journal of Sportsmedicine)

Diabetic Ulcers

With improved postural positioning of the foot, blood flow into the foot is greatly enhanced. This allows the diabetic ulcer to heal, reducing the likelihood of a partial or complete foot amputation (Case Studies, Group Health Hospital, Department of Orthopedics, Tacoma Washington 1996; Diabetic Study, Istituto Superiore di Sanita, 2005).

Infertility

Proprioceptive stimulation reverses the anterior (forward) rotation of the pelvis. This decreases the possibility of a blockage (Isthmus Block) between the ovaries and the fallopian (uterine) tubule, where conception normally occurs.  The egg passes more freely from the ovaries into the fallopian tubule.  Impregnation is facilitated (chances of becoming pregnant are improved).


 
                

     Isthmus Block Associated
     with Anterior Rotation of Pelvis
     Copyright, All rights reserved. 2005

Serour GI 1982 (Prof OB/GYN Al Azhar Univ). Laproscopic Ventrosuspension. A New Technique. Int J Gynaecol Obstet, 20:129-131.

  Using Proprioceptive Insoles, this patient was able to become pregnant

Menstruation

By reducing the forward rotation of the pelvis, the blockage between the uterus and the vagina is reduced. This allows the waste materials, generated by menstruation, to be passed out of the body more efficiently. This in turn, can diminish or greatly reduce menstrual pain (and low back pain). (Bellevue Study 1993-95)

Headaches

Many headaches arise from tension in the neck muscles. By positioning the head over the spine, the neck muscles relax. Headaches may become less frequent and less intense (Rothbart, Hansen and Liley 1994).

Fibromyalgia

Many patients with Rothbart's Foot Structure have pain symptoms, foot to jaw.  It is not uncommon for these patients to be diagnosed as having Fibromyalgia.  One healthcare specialist in Chicago talks about her experiences using proprioceptive insoles in their Fibromyalgic Clinic and the results they have seen over the past five years.

A Profound Effect

Proprioceptive Stimulation, as you can see has a profound effect on the body, solving so many chronic body problems, that in the past were considered unsolvable. This is done naturally, without the use or need of surgery or drugs.  It just makes good sense to treat your body in a kind and respectful way, allowing it to heal itself naturally.