Some Surprising Facts About Your Posture!
Your posture is one of the first things people notice about you, and it can affect much more than just spinal health! Healthy posture has been linked to better respiratory function and even increased confidence.
In this blog post, we explore a few other surprising facts about posture.
Ideal Posture Doesn’t Mean Having a Straight Back
Many people believe that good posture means standing as straight as possible with the shoulders pulled back. In fact, this is quite unnatural and requires a lot of effort to maintain!
Ideal posture occurs when the spine rests in its most comfortable and strongest position. The neck has a gentle backward curve, the thoracic spine curves slightly forward, and the lower back curves backward again. These curves create a natural elongated ‘S’ shape, visible when viewing a person side-on.
Want to know how to optimise your standing posture? Watch our video here.
Want to know how to optimise your sitting posture? Watch our video here.
There Are Four Common Postural Patterns (Other Than Ideal Posture)
For those without ideal posture, four common variations are typically seen:
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Kyphosis – an excessive curve in the thoracic (upper back) region
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Lordosis – an exaggerated inward curve in the lower back
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Flat back – a loss of the normal spinal curves
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Sway back – when the pelvis is positioned in front of your centre of gravity and the upper body leans back to compensate
Each of these postural types is often associated with a typical pattern of joint and muscle stiffness, which can lead to pain and injury. A physiotherapist can assess your posture and identify whether it’s contributing to any discomfort. They can also support you with strategies to improve posture, spinal mobility, and strength.
Regular Movement Is Just as Important as Posture
While ideal posture helps reduce stress and tension in the spinal muscles, holding yourself in any one position for too long isn’t healthy either.
Ideally, your spine should be flexible and able to move through its full range without pain or stiffness. Regular movement is essential for joint health – including your spine.
If you find yourself sitting or standing for extended periods, try to incorporate movement and stretching into your day.
Sitting too long? Try our stretch routine here!
Posture Can Affect Your Ability to Breathe
Your ribs attach to the 12 thoracic vertebrae in the upper spine. When this part of the spine is habitually bent forward (a posture known as kyphosis), the ribs can’t move as freely. This restricts your ability to breathe deeply.
If the thoracic spine is held in this position for prolonged periods, it may impact your overall health and wellbeing, and contribute to both neck and lower back pain.
Your Physiotherapist Can Help
Our team at Synergy Physio are experts in managing back and spinal pain.
We take a thorough, biomechanical approach to assessment, along with a clear step-by-step explanation and tailored treatment plan – all to help you move forward towards a healthier, happier you.
Learn more about our physiotherapy team here!