Is Posture Bringing You Down?
Posture is the position in which we hold our bodies while standing, sitting, or lying down. Good posture is the correct alignment of body parts supported by the right amount of muscle tension against gravity. Without posture and the muscles that control it, we would simply fall to the ground.
Good posture has many benefits for our bodies overall structure. It helps us keep bones and joints in correct alignment and allows the reduction of stress on the body minimizing the likelihood of injury. The muscles have the ability to work more efficiently reducing fatigue and using less energy when we have a good posture. Also, protects against muscle strain, overuse disorders and even back and muscular pain.
Several factors contribute to poor posture–most commonly, stress, obesity, pregnancy, weak postural muscles, abnormally tight muscles, and high-heeled shoes. In addition, decreased flexibility, a poor work environment, incorrect working posture, and unhealthy sitting and standing habits can also contribute to poor body positioning.
Symptoms of poor posture
The most common symptoms of poor posture are the following:
- Neck Pain
- Headaches/Migraines
- Shoulder/Upper Back Pain
- Arm/Hand Numbness and Tingling
- Jaw Pain (TMJD)
- Back Pain
- Muscle Fatigue/Stress
- Body Aches and Pain (Joint and Muscle)
- Spinal Degeneration/Disc Disease