Meet the dura, and the reason we need to slide, glide and floss our nerves
The dura mater is a tough and protective membrane that surrounds and supports the nerves in the body, particularly in the central nervous system, which includes the brain and spinal cord. Think of it like a strong and flexible "wrapper" that covers and shields the delicate nerves from potential harm. It helps to keep the nerves safe from injuries and impacts, providing an extra layer of defense. It also plays a role in maintaining the proper tension and position of the nerves within the body. Nerves need to move and stretch as our body moves. The dura mater helps to control and regulate this movement by providing a supportive structure. It's a bit like a protective sleeve that allows the nerves to glide and shift without getting compressed or overly strained, ensuring that they can function properly even as we move and bend. This is important for preventing discomfort and maintaining the health of the nerves.
When things get stuck
The dura can sometimes become "stuck" or restricted due to various reasons. This condition is often referred to as dural tension or neural tension. Neural tension occurs when the dura and the nerves it surrounds experience limitations in their ability to move and stretch properly. This can lead to discomfort, pain, and even altered nerve function.
There are a few ways this can happen:
- Physical Stress or Trauma: Injuries or traumas to the body, such as falls, accidents, or surgeries, can cause the dura mater to become stuck to surrounding tissues. This can restrict its normal movement and lead to neural tension.
- Poor Posture: Maintaining poor posture for extended periods can cause the dura and nerves to be subjected to unnatural positions, potentially leading to restrictions and tension. Think here of slumped spinal postures, rounded tight shoulders or tucked bottoms.
- Muscle Imbalances: Imbalances in muscle strength or flexibility can cause the dura to become compressed or tethered, limiting its ability to glide smoothly and causing tension on the nerves. Piriformis Syndrome is a perfect example of this where deep buttock muscles compress and irritate the sciatic nerve.
- Inflammation or Scar Tissue: Inflammation or the formation of scar tissue around the dura and nerves can restrict their movement and lead to neural tension. This could occur after surgery.
So when you are next told to 'floss' or 'glide' your nerves, you now know what structures you are actually targeting. A nerve and its protector ( the dura or sheath), like all other tissues in your body love movement. Remember, motion is the lotion!
