What is Good Posture?
 

The term posture refers to body position, not only when standing, but while sitting or even lying down. In particular, posture refers to the position of the spine. When a person has good posture, muscles are relaxed; the shoulders are back, the abdomen flat and the head, trunk, and thighs are in a straight line. There is little or no stress on the spine or other joints like the hips and knees.

Why Does Posture Matter?

Aside from the matter of appearance -- someone who chronically slouches or walks around with slumped shoulders and protruding abdomen looks unattractive and even unhealthy, not to mention older -- posture affects musculoskeletal health. Poor posture increases stress on muscles, tendons and ligaments, and can cause problems with spinal and joint alignment. Muscles have to work harder when posture is poor, and it can affect balance, which increases the risk of falls and other injuries. Poor posture can also increase wear and tear on the joints.

What Are the Signs of Poor Posture?

Chronic pain, especially in the neck or low back, is often a sign of poor posture. Even a layperson can often recognize other signs of poor posture such as slumping, hunched shoulders, rounded shoulders or a rounded upper back. Other visible signs are a forward head carriage and an excessive arch in the lower back. However, the stiff, rigid posture seen in military personnel is overly straight, and can also lead to muscle tension. Stress, obesity, weak muscles (especially in the back and abdomen) and abnormally tight muscles can contribute to poor posture.

How Can Chiropractic Help?

If poor posture is due to misalignment in the spine, a chiropractor can correct the problem with an adjustment. A chiropractor can also assess posture and identify specific problems such as chronically thrusting the head forward or rounding the shoulders. Exercises help relieve tight muscles, strengthen muscles that support the spine and balance opposing muscles to promote better posture. Chiropractors can also educate patients about ergonomics -- how they use the body in daily activities -- to promote better posture at all times. Dr. Benson utilizes Chiropractic BioPhysics/ Clinical Biomechanics of Posture technique which has multiple research studies that show clinical effectiveness for improving posture and alignment. This can often relieve chronic problems and be preventative as well.