Think About Your Posture 

 

Why is good posture important?

When the spine is properly in alignment it acts like a spring absorbing compressive forces. Good posture results in more efficient movement of the joints and muscles and can help prevent injury. 

What can go wrong with posture?

Probably the most common postural abnormality is an excessive curve in the middle of the back (thoracic kyphosis). This is sometimes referred to as upper cross syndrome.

The posterior neck and chest muscles to become tight and shortened and the muscles in the middle of the back become weak and stretched. 

This results in the head being held forward over the chest, the shoulders becoming rounded and a hunch developing through the upper back. With the spine and muscles now held in this position, strain is put through the joints of the neck and upper back and can cause symptoms such as headaches and pain in the neck, upper back and shoulders.

An excessive curve in the low back (lumbar lordosis) is also common. This is sometimes referred to as lower cross syndrome. It usually results from tight low back muscles and tight hip flexors, in conjunction with weak lower abdominal muscles. 

One way to tell if you have an excessive lumbar lordosis is to use the hand test. Usually it is indicative of an abnormal curve if you can fit your entire hand under your low back. If you can only fit your fingers under your low back you have a normal curve.

What can be done to improve posture?

Get an expert opinion; it's almost impossible to self-diagnose habits that we have spent a lifetime acquiring. Your chiropractor will look at overall spinal function, in addition to recommending a range of strength and flexibility exercises.

Self help information available in books and via the internet may be useful. However, if you select an exercise that is not of any benefit, or you perform an exercise incorrectly you can end up making things worse.