It’s a habit many don’t think twice about—slipping your wallet into your back pocket before heading out the door. But this seemingly simple practice can have implications for your spinal health for years to come. At Bare Chiropractic, Dr. Thomas Keogh and our team are committed to educating our community on everyday habits that affect well-being. Let’s delve into why it’s time to reconsider where you carry your wallet and how this small change can make a big difference.
The Hidden Impact on Your Spine
Sitting on a wallet, even a slim one, creates an uneven surface beneath your pelvis. This imbalance can tilt the pelvis and misalign the spine, leading to discomfort and potential long-term issues. Over time, this misalignment may contribute to chronic lower back pain and sciatica. The sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back down each leg, can become compressed, causing pain, tingling, or numbness. This condition, sometimes referred to as “wallet neuritis,” underscores the importance of mindful habits in daily life.
What starts as a minor annoyance can escalate if left unaddressed. Misalignments from consistently sitting on a wallet may also affect the sacroiliac joints and lower lumbar vertebrae, which are crucial for stability and movement. This stress can radiate up the spine, potentially causing discomfort in the upper back and even the neck.
Beyond immediate discomfort, consistently sitting on a wallet can lead to muscular imbalances. The body may compensate for the uneven posture, resulting in strain on certain muscle groups. This can affect gait, posture, and overall spinal health. It’s a clear example of how small, repeated actions can influence our body’s alignment and function.
Simple Steps for Spinal Health
Addressing this issue doesn’t require drastic changes. Consider these straightforward adjustments:
- Front Pocket Placement: Carrying your wallet in a front pocket can help maintain pelvic and spinal alignment. It may take some getting used to, but your spine will thank you.
- Minimize Wallet Contents: Reducing the number of items in your wallet can decrease its bulk, making it more comfortable to carry elsewhere. A slim card holder can be a good alternative.
- Remove Wallet When Seated: Taking your wallet out before sitting, especially for extended periods, can prevent unnecessary pressure on the spine. Keep a designated spot for it in your car or desk drawer.
Additionally, consider regular check-ins with a chiropractor to assess posture and alignment. Preventive care can go a long way in catching small issues before they become major disruptions.
Prioritize Your Spinal Health Today
At Bare Chiropractic, we believe that informed choices lead to healthier lives. It’s easy to overlook the role of simple routines in your spinal health, but awareness is the first step toward meaningful change. If you’re experiencing back discomfort or are curious about how daily habits impact your body’s alignment, Dr. Thomas Keogh and the team at Bare Chiropractic are here to assist.
Reach out to us to schedule a consultation and take a proactive step toward well-being. We’re here to help you live your healthiest, most aligned life—starting with the small things that matter.
Sources
Bhattacharya, S., Garg, S., Grover, A., Singh, A. “Credit carditis or fat wallet syndrome-A neglected yet, preventable public health problem.” Journal of Family Medicine and Primary Care, 2024 Apr 22; 13 (4): 1566–1567. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11141947/
Siddiq, M.A.B., Jahan, I., Mashihuzzaman, S.A.M. “Wallet Neuritis – An Example of Peripheral Sensitization.” Current Rheumatology Reviews, 2018 Dec; 14 (3): 279–283. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6204659/
