Is Posture Really THAT Important?

I remember seeing movies and advertisements with women who walked around with books on their heads.  Posture was an important skill for people to learn because it showed confidence and presence.  As the years go by, we learn more and more about how posture actually affects your health.

Posture as defined by your chiropractor is "The position of the human body relative to gravity". It is important to take gravity into account, because it is due to gravity that improper posture can cause undue stress.  Improper posture causes misalignment in your spine which puts pressure on your muscles, joints and supporting soft tissue.  In many cases poor posture can begin to affect your vital organs!

One of the most important factors in having good posture are your spinal curves.  Your spinal column is made up of 26 bones forming 4 major curves: cervical, thoracic, lumbar and sacral.  These curves are necessary in allowing proper shock absorption.  If the curves are too much or not enough, injuries are likely to happen due to excessive compressive loads on your discs and joints.

For every inch your head drifts forward relative to your shoulder, 10x more weight is exerted upon your muscles and joints of the upper back and neck!  The more you sit in front of a computer or tv, the worse this type of posture becomes.  Have someone check your posture from the side.  If your ear is not centered over the middle of your shoulder, you have anterior head carriage.

Slouching is another important postural issue.  Slouching can cause undo stress on the entire spine.  As we age, if a curved upper back is not rectified, it can actually lead to a shorter life!  If you are sitting, bend slightly forward and take a deep breath.  Now sit up straight and try again.  Which was easier?  If posture is not taken care of early enough, your spine will begin to form permanently in a position that will cause stress on organs and tissues!

Awareness is the first step to fixing posture.  Pay attention to your posture at work, in class and even at home.  Focus on pulling yourself taller, not just pulling your shoulders back.  Some improper posture needs outside help.  Some chiropractors have continuing education specifically in posture and can retrain your muscles and adjust your spine to improve your posture.

If you would like to have your posture analyzed, call to schedule a consultation at our office.  We will do posture pictures and print a report for you to keep!  Visit our website or give our office a call at 847-362-4476.