So, what is posture?
Posture is how you hold your body whether you’re standing, sitting, lying down, or even moving around. It refers to the relative position of your muscles, bones, and other supporting body structures. Many people don’t think of their posture, but they should. This is true when people are active, but also when they take part in activities like working, shopping, sitting and standing. Posture is important when laying down, too.
Maintaining Good Posture vs Poor Posture
Ideally, you want your body to be aligned and balanced in a way that your body structures are properly supported and protected. Proper posture provides you with comfort and stability. It will reduce the stress and strain on your muscles, joints and spine, and therefore, decreases the likelihood of pain and injury. Having good posture is about more than sitting up straight. It makes you comfortable and capable of participating in all of your favorites activities and hobbies.
Poor posture is when the natural spine curves are either flattened or exaggerated. This ultimately puts more strain on your body and will cause increased wear and tear on the spine. It can show up in a variety of forms. Poor posture may be due to numerous reasons, such as weak muscles, muscle imbalances, lack of flexibility, or simply bad habits. Those with poor posture are more likely to experience other injuries, too. This is especially true for people that participate in strenuous activities or hobbies.
Poor posture may start with issues in the head and neck, most often from bad sitting habits. It has a ripple effect down your body. Problems with posture can also result from foot issues, such as flatfeet, and cause a change in the kinetic forces running through your body. Poor posture takes time to learn, but it will also take time to improve. You may feel a difference, but you won’t see lasting results until you commit to change.
Health Effects of Poor Posture
Poor posture is more than a slouched appearance. Being out of alignment puts greater pressure on your body and increases the wear and tear on your joints and spine. To alleviate this pain, focus on building strength throughout your body. Not only does this make you feel better, but it helps to remind you why good posture is essential. For example, slouching, in which your head is tilted forward your back is rounded, increases the weight your spine must bear. Changing posture – even in small ways – is very helpful, and the more changes you implement, the better off you’ll be.
Some signs and symptoms associated with poor posture include:
- Headaches
- Back and neck pain
- Knee, hip and foot pain
- Shoulder pain and impingement
- Jaw pain
- Breathing problems
One useful tip for maintaining your posture is using postural feedback through as device like the Physio Factory Posture Device. This will tell you if you are deviating from good anatomical alignment and encourage you to move into a better position. Once corrected, the vibration will stop. Never be lazy with your posture again!