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We’re all constantly reminded about the importance of having
good posture. It’s been embedded into our culture that sitting tall while
holding your head high reveals health, poise, and professionalism from each
individual who practices proper posture, but besides visually looking well,
good posture is essential because it keeps us healthy from within.
The Importance of Proper Posture
When an individual maintains a proper posture, the muscles and
other tissues supporting the structure of the neck and back remain strong while
the spine preserves its natural and healthy alignment. Studies have previously
concluded that good posture can help you have more energy, less stress, as well
as prevent fatigue. As a matter of fact, good posture is crucial if you want to
maintain an ideal physical fitness. Ultimately, a proper posture is a sign of
good health.
If you have bad posture, not only will it create spine
complications along with pain and discomfort in the present, but gradually,
improper posture can have negative effects later in life if not corrected in
time.
Physical Changes with Improper Posture
One of the most distinguished negative effects associated
among individuals with improper posture includes a change in the spinal curve.
The spine is naturally designed to have a slight S-shaped curvature, however,
after an extended period of time practicing incorrect posture when sitting or
standing, the spine is put under a tremendous amount of pressure. This occurs
because the spine is repeatedly being forced into an unnatural position. The
altered spinal curve can not only lead to chronic pain and discomfort, but it
can impede the spine from naturally absorbing shock as well as maintain proper
balance.
Also, studies have found that sitting all day with bad
posture can impact the digestive organs. Poor posture can actually compress the
digestive organs and restrict them from functioning to their full potential. As
a result, the body’s normal digestive process can be greatly slowed down,
affecting the individual’s metabolism. Over time, long-term compression of the
digestive organs can severely debilitate the body’s ability to consume and
process food. You may ultimately face life-altering metabolic issues if the improper
posture is not corrected.
Both an Australian study on poor posture and life expectancy
and an English study on poor posture and sitting concluded that individuals who
consistently sit using back posture have an increased risk of developing
cardiovascular complications. Another study found that individuals who sit most
of the day had an increased chance of 147% in developing cardiovascular disease.
Additionally, sitting for extended periods of time prevents the body from
getting the necessary circulation it needs, leading to the formation of
varicose veins, veins that have become enlarged and twisted. This issue is
particularly common in women.
The Effects of Improper Posture
Many people who maintain poor posture may suffer from
chronic back pain and spending enough time sitting with bad posture can
eventually cause disc degeneration. These complications are often diagnosed
back to posture problems due to the extra stress that has been put on the
spine.
Overall, improper posture impacts much more than the way you
look. Once you’ve become aware of your own body’s posture, its important to
take the time to stand up and move throughout your day, sitting up straight
with your shoulders back and your spine straight as well as make sure to visit
your chiropractor for regular adjustments. Taking a moment in your life to do
these things can not only help you have a better posture, but it can also
prevent you from dealing with numerous health complications in the future.
By Dr. Alex Jimenez
