“The Importance of Proper Posture: Understanding Postural Dysfunction”

By: Anthony Anderson HMS CPT CPX CPN CPPS LMT1408 SSI

A question to the reader…Have you ever experienced back pain or discomfort after sitting for a long time? Chances are, your posture could be the culprit. Posture is the position in which you hold your body when sitting, standing, or lying down, a gross simplification. Good posture involves the correct alignment of the body’s various parts(ie…optimal length-tension relationships(muscles), adequate joint alignment, etc), whereas poor posture can cause discomfort, pain, and even long-term damage to the body. In this post, I will discuss the importance of good posture and the negative effects of postural dysfunction.

What is Postural Dysfunction?

Postural dysfunction is a term used to describe an abnormal alignment of the body that causes discomfort, pain, and impaired function. It can be caused by various factors, such as poor habits, lack of physical activity, injury, and disease. The most common types of postural dysfunction are forward head posture, rounded shoulders, swayback, and flatback.

Forward head posture occurs when the head is pushed forward, which can cause neck and shoulder pain, as well as headaches. Rounded shoulders occur when the shoulders are rolled forward, and the chest is concave, which can cause pain in the upper back and neck. Swayback occurs when the pelvis is tilted too far forward, causing the lower back to arch excessively, leading to back pain. Flatback occurs when the spine has a reduced curve, causing the back to become flat, leading to lower back pain.

Understanding the Importance of Good Posture

Good posture involves the correct alignment of the body’s various parts, ensuring that the muscles and bones are in their correct position. Good posture helps maintain a healthy spine, improves circulation, and reduces the risk of developing injuries. It also helps in breathing, reduces stress on the ligaments, and increases energy levels. In contrast, poor posture can cause discomfort, pain, and long-term damage to the body.

How to Achieve and Maintain Good Posture

It’s essential to ensure that you maintain good posture throughout the day, regardless of your activity. Here are some strategies to help you achieve and maintain good posture:

1. Sit with your back straight, ensuring that your shoulders are relaxed, and your feet are flat on the floor.
2. Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, ensuring that your weight is evenly distributed on both feet.
3. Use a pillow or cushion to support your lower back when sitting for an extended period.
4. Avoid sitting in the same position for a prolonged time. Take frequent breaks to stand up, stretch, and walk around.
5. When carrying a bag, try to use a backpack to distribute the weight evenly on your back.

Treatment and Prevention of Postural Dysfunction

In some cases, postural dysfunction may require treatment from a medical professional. Physical therapy, chiropractic adjustments, and massages can help realign the body, alleviate pain, and prevent long-term damage. In contrast, maintaining proper posture through exercise, healthy lifestyle habits, and ergonomic improvements can prevent the development of postural dysfunction.

Conclusion

In conclusion, good posture is vital to our overall health and wellbeing. Postural dysfunction can lead to discomfort, pain, and long-term damage to the body. Understanding and maintaining good posture can improve our quality of life and reduce the risk of developing postural dysfunction. By practicing proper ergonomics and maintaining healthy habits, we can ensure that we maintain good posture throughout our lives.