Why Spinal Misalignments Happen and What Causes Them

Maybe you’ve heard your chiropractor talk about spinal misalignments—areas where the spine isn’t moving or aligned the way it should be. And perhaps you’ve wondered what causes these phenomena to occur. The answer is that misalignments usually develop from a mix of everyday stress, posture habits, injuries, and emotional strain.

A spinal misalignment happens when one or more vertebrae (the small bones that make up your spine) shift up, down, or side-to-side. This shift can put pressure on nearby nerves and muscles, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced motion. Sometimes it feels like a “kink” in your neck or a tight spot in your lower back. But the problem often starts long before you feel that discomfort.

Physical stress is one of the biggest culprits. Poor posture—like hunching over a computer or slouching—puts uneven pressure on the spine. Repetitive movements at work, carrying heavy bags on one shoulder, or sleeping awkwardly can all create small imbalances that add up. Even something as simple as sitting too long can weaken core muscles, making the spine less supported and more likely to shift out of alignment.

Injuries are another big factor. Car accidents, sports injuries, or slips and falls cause sudden jolts to the spine. Your muscles and joints tense responsively, but this sudden tension creates imbalance. These impacts strain soft tissues and lead to inflammation that limits normal motion. Even after initial pain fades, the area of injury may remain misaligned unless it’s properly treated through movement and chiropractic care.

Believe it or not, emotional stress can also play a surprising role. When you’re anxious, sad, or under extreme pressure, your body naturally tightens its muscles—especially around the neck, shoulders, and back. Over time, this constant tension can pull joints out of their proper position and restrict spinal movement. It’s one reason people often feel their stress “in their back.”

Lastly, chemical and lifestyle factors—like poor nutrition, dehydration, smoking and drug use, and lack of exercise—can affect how well your muscles and joints function. When tissues aren’t getting the nutrients or circulation they need, they become more prone to stiffness and misalignment.

To make it simple, spinal misalignments don’t normally happen from one singular event—they develop gradually from the way we live, move, and respond to stress. The good news? Regular movement, stretching, good posture, and chiropractic adjustments can help keep your spine balanced, flexible, and functioning at its best.