Proper Posture Reduces Stress On The Spine

In a prior post I wrote about the cerebellum and its effect on body posture. I’ve been using modern chiropractic and neurological techniques since about 1995 and I can tell you it can be the make-or-break factor in successfully treating many pain syndromes including herniated or bulged disc, arthritis, stenosis and carpal tunnel syndrome. Clinically, we have seen dramatic gains when we improve posture and that is why we perform a computerized postural analysis on virtually every patient. We use the results of this test as a reference point to measure improvement after applying manual therapy.

Ergonomics also plays a huge role in affecting posture. For example, our posture changes as we alternate between sitting, standing and lying down. The structure of a chair, shoe and bed can stabilize or induce abnormal forces on the spine. Therefore, it’s quite possible to have adequate support in one position and not another. I’ll discuss Ergonomics in an upcoming post but the takeaway is that postural correction can be very important to significantly reduce—and prevent--pain.

The information below from the prestigious Cleveland Clinic highlights some of the benefits of proper posture.

From The Cleveland Clinic:What is good posture?

Posture is the position in which you hold your body upright against gravity while standing, sitting or lying down. Good posture involves training your body to stand, walk, sit and lie in positions where the least strain is placed on supporting muscles and ligaments during movement or weight-bearing activities. Proper posture:

• Keeps bones and joints in the correct alignment so that muscles are being used properly.
• Helps decrease the abnormal wearing of joint surfaces that could result in arthritis.
• Decreases the stress on the ligaments holding the joints of the spine together.
• Prevents the spine from becoming fixed in abnormal positions.
• Prevents fatigue because muscles are being used more efficiently, allowing the body to use less energy.
• Prevents strain or overuse problems.
• Prevents backache and muscular pain.
• Contributes to a good appearance.