Because people’s bodies are slightly different, no one can say for certain that one person has imperfect posture, while the other has a perfect one. What is certain, however, is that bad or poor posture can lead to several health problems. It can be a cause of chronic pain, something one in five Australians aged 45 and over suffer from, according to a 2020 report by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW). Are you one of these individuals? Your posture might be causing the problem.
What is posture and what makes it proper?
Posture refers to the way you hold your body while you move or sit still. Your musculoskeletal system is responsible for helping you maintain posture, with certain parts of your body controlling your position. These include joints that work with tendons, muscles, and ligaments. This is why you might need myofascial release therapy to deal with certain musculoskeletal problems. Posture can be static (still) or dynamic (while moving).
Many studies show that proper posture is more to do with self-esteem and the perception of looking good and less about pain prevention and health. If you want to focus on the healthy side of things, proper posture is linked to how you support your body and the curve of your spine. Think of it as the ergonomic office furniture that supports posture while sitting down for long hours. There are some things you can do to maintain healthy posture, such as keeping your head above your shoulders and your shoulders above your hips. Your lower body, whether you’re sitting down or standing up, must be kept in a stable position. Both of your feet must be flat on the floor in front of your knees when seated.
Why does proper posture matter?
Because bad posture increases the risk of musculoskeletal disorders. Postural problems can occur during a variety of activities, such as working long hours in front of a computer and doing repetitive tasks without a proper form. Holding a bad posture for a long time can lead to headaches and back and neck pain. It can also impact your range of motion, balance, and overall flexibility.
How can you improve posture?
If you’re experiencing pain in your lower back or neck, your posture might be to blame. Maintaining a neutral posture, whether sitting down or standing up, alleviates the stress in your body. You should also work on your core muscles because activating it will help straighten your posture naturally and keep your spine aligned. Staying active, eating a balanced diet, and wearing well-fitting shoes will also help.
Your posture may not be something you normally focus on. Because bad posture leads to health problems, consider looking into whether it’s the cause of the pain and discomfort you’re currently experiencing. Better yet, seek professional advice from experts in Canning Vale Chiropractic. Tap into their knowledge and skills to ensure overall health.
