Poor posture is very common in today’s population due to the nature of our lifestyles. A lot of people work at a desk, have a sedentary lifestyle or overuse smart devices. When we do these things we tend to slouch and over time our posture starts to change. Posture is a reflection of our lifestyle and if we practice poor postural habits, we will almost certainly develop poor posture.
Posture is something we pay special attention to at Dee Why Chiropractic Care. We aim to educate each patient on their posture and how we can improve it. There are many health benefits with good posture and below is a list of the most important ones.
1. Reduced low back pain
Poor posture increases the stress on the joints and muscles in your lower back that can lead to injury and pain.
2. Fewer headaches
Poor posture can lead to tension headaches due to the increased stress placed on neck muscles and joints.
3. Increased energy levels
When we have good posture there is less load placed on muscles supporting your body so they are not being fatigued and for that reason we have more energy.
4. No more tight shoulders
The head is heavy; it weighs as much as a bowling ball. When we have poor posture it pushes the head forward and it increases the weight on the shoulder muscles leading to chronic tightness. In fact every inch your head translates forward it doubles the weight on your neck and shoulders.
5. Better spinal health
When we have poor posture we tend to have changes in our spinal curves. These spinal curves act as shock absorbers to protect your spine. Changes in the curves decreases the body’s ability to distribute forces through the spine leading to premature degeneration of the joints.
6. Better breathing
When we slouch we compress our lungs and when we have good posture the lungs have more space to expand.
7. Stronger core
When you’re holding good posture your core remains active. An active core protects your spine from injury and pain.
8. Decreased shoulder pain
With good posture there is less stress placed on the shoulder and it has more mobility. It protects you from conditions such as shoulder impingement and rotator cuff injuries.
9. Greater mobility
The joints in your spine have a greater range of motion and move freely because they are better aligned.
10. Better self confidence
Studies have shown that good posture can increase your self confidence. You appear confident and self assured.