Why posture is everything
According to PostureMonth.org, 80% of Americans suffer from back pain at some point during their lives. Eye opening, right?
If that statistic isn’t enough, there are two simple reasons on why postural awareness is important for your health; you lessen your chance of having headaches and migraines, and lessen your chances of having back pain.
From holding your stress in your shoulders you can create tightness in your neck, which in turn can cause pressure up into your head. The pressure that builds in your head can cause headaches and migraines. Being mindful of how your shoulders are positioned is key not only for long lasting health, but also for lessening your chances of having headaches and migraines. Additionally, remind yourself to think about your shoulders daily. Take deep breaths and relax your arms to the side; this will help you to drop yours shoulders down with your arms.
Many people suffer from back pain due to how they hold their trunk (core/abdominal) area while sitting and standing. It is important to keep in mind where your trunk is compared to where your pelvis is when doing daily activities. Ensure you also keep your trunk over your hips with your spine aligned straight up and down.
Giving yourself cues throughout the day to be aware of where your trunk is over your hips can help you maintain proper posture throughout the day. It is also important to keep your core engaged during all daily activities. This is crucial for maintaining the spine in an upright position and not letting your abdominals relax as this pulls your lumbar spine (lower back) into a lordosis position (unnatural curvature in lower back) which brings pressure to the spine.
If you have questions or concerns about proper positioning while sitting, standing, or performing other activities, please speak with your physical therapist.
Thanks for reading!
Sarah Jacobs, PTA
Physical Therapist Assistant
Resources:
