Square tyres don't roll - structure governs function

There is a very old saying in medicine that says "square tyres don't roll". What this basically means is that  the structure or shape of your body will influence it's function. The idea that structure governs function is a guiding principle to many osteopaths. Let me give you a couple of examples where a persons structure effected their function and more importantly there health.

Imagine somebody who does not exercise enough and gains a whole bunch of weight. That excessive weight gain we lead to excess pressure on the heart and joints. So over time excess weight will lead to heart disease, joint pain and arthritis.

Another example of where structure effects function is spinal scoliosis. This is where a person is born with a S-shape curve. Having a mis-shaped spine will effect the function of the spinal nerve roots and so cause problems with your muscles and organs.

The difference between these two examples is that the problems caused by the excess weight are avoidable while people simply inherit a scoliosis. Put another way the health problems you develop because of weight gain are a matter of choice. You either choose to eat a healthy diet and exercise regularly or you don't. Health is often a matter of choice, would you rather have round tyres and enjoy life.