Health Benefits of Correcting Bad Posture

Bad posture can cause problems for your well-being in several ways. First of all, slumping over gives a weak and tired appearance as opposed to standing up straight, which looks more commanding. Good posture is also helpful for the performance of singers and athletes. But ultimately, there are deeper reasons why correcting bad posture is essential to your good health.

Preventing Pain and Fatigue

Good posture is a conscious skill that allows you to stand, walk and sit with the least amount of strain on your back, muscles and ligaments. When you stand up straight you are actually protecting several organs at one time and allowing them to function at an optimum level, whereas when you slump over you are causing the body to work harder, which can lead to painful muscle spasms.

You can also breathe more properly with free air flow when you practice proper posture. Other reasons to maintain good posture are that it can affect heart rate and blood pressure, as well as mood and energy level.

By standing up straight, you are allowing your bones and joints to be in proper alignment with the least amount of stress on ligaments. When bones and joints are not aligned properly it can wear down joint surfaces, which can lead to arthritis.

Avoiding Medication

One of the strongest reasons for maintaining good posture is so that you don't have to end up taking dangerous medication for back pains. As the body ages you become more likely to suffer from back pains if you do not work on correcting bad posture. Opiates such as Codeine, Vicodin and Morphine are typically prescribed after back surgery and can have unwanted side effects.

A safer approach is to stay in shape so that back surgery is not necessary and visit a chiropractor when pain develops. Spinal decompression is a much safer form of therapy for certain patients should your back be thrown out of alignment for any reason. It involves a therapist gently stretching an area of your spine for a 20 to 30 minute session.

How to Practice Proper Posture

Standing up straight involves keeping your shoulders back in a relaxed position while your chest remains high and your stomach pulled in. Your feet should be parallel while your body is balanced and your knees are relaxed instead of stiff. You can use a wall to stand up against to get the feel of proper posture. A mirror can also help you see how straight your back is.

Sitting down is a similar concept for achieving good posture except that your weight needs to be balanced in your hips instead of your feet. You should keep your knees even as well while your feet rest flat on the floor. It's a good idea to avoid sitting in the same position for long periods. Every half hour or so, you should briefly give your body a break by standing up and straightening your legs. When driving in a car, you can help make your back more comfortable by using a back support.

Lifting weights or heavy objects can cause back injury if you don't position your body properly. Correcting bad posture is the key to lifting objects safely. Avoid lifting anything that seems too awkward or heavy. When you do lift objects from the ground make sure your back is straight and your knees are bent with your feet firmly balanced. Never lean forward with straight knees when trying to lift objects and do not rely on just the strength of your arms without the help of bending your knees.

Correcting your bad posture is a great way to reduce pain and improve your overall health. If you think you have poor posture, and would like a professional to explain your treatment options, call Chiro-Med today.