By Bethany Higgins: Chiropractor at Victoria Point Chiropractic
Posture is the position in which you hold your body while standing, sitting, or lying down. Good posture involves training your body to stand, walk, sit, and lie in positions where the least strain is placed on supporting muscles and ligaments during movement or weight-bearing activities.
Many factors can cause poor posture, but bad habits such as slouching and inactivity cause muscle fatigue and tension that ultimately lead to poor posture. The complications of poor posture can include back pain, spinal dysfunction, joint degeneration, rounded shoulders, and a potbelly.
Having good posture makes you look better but also has many overall health benefits. Good posture helps to decrease wear and tear on the joints that could result in arthritis. It prevents muscle fatigue due to more efficient use of muscles and can also assist in the prevention of backache, muscular spasms, tiredness, and headaches.
As chiropractors, we look at the symptoms of poor posture and aim to restore postural alignment. We assess joint motion, flexibility, and weak or tight muscles. It is also important that we assess sleep, work, home ergonomics which may contribute to poor posture such as, inappropriate bending and lifting techniques; slouching in front of a television, mobile device, or computer; carrying a wallet in your back pocket and sitting on it; carrying heavy bags on one shoulder and even the wearing of high heels.
You can improve your posture and spinal health by making a few lifestyle adjustments. Ask your chiropractor for ergonomic and postural advice. Also consider discussing the postural benefits of investing in a good chair, pillow, and mattress.
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