Good posture is the window to the spine and thus spinal health.  We recognize poor posture when we see it formed as a result of past injuries or bad habits carried out over years and evident in many adults. .

 

 

What is posture?

 

           

 

The above image shows x-rays of the neck curve before and after chiropractic care.  As we go about our daily activities, which usually involve a forward head posture, eg. working at the computer, driving, watching T.V., the curve in our neck, which is also the curve of life, tends to get straighter.  As this happens, the muscles around the curve tighten and spasm, leading to tension in the shoulders and the upper back.  Since the spine has three natural curves, the neck, upper back , and the lower back, any change in the neck curve percolates down to the other two curves.  These curves now begin to compensate for the straightening of the neck curve.  Hence, it is quite common to get mid back pain and low back pain associated with the change in the cervical curve.  

 

Posture is the position in which we hold our bodies while standing, sitting, or lying down

 

Optimal or ideal posture involves the positioning of the joints to provide minimum stress on the supportive structures of our body and provide protection against injury or progressive deformity.  Good posture is the correct alignment of body parts supported by the right amount of muscle tension against gravity

 

Poor posture increases stress on the joints. Increased stress can be compensated for by strong muscles.  But, if our muscles are weak or if our joints lack mobility, our body goes into a compensation pattern resulting in excessive wear and tear as well as modification of the joints and causing damage to the surrounding tissues.

 

 

Muscles and ligaments are critically important in maintaining good posture. While the ligaments help to hold the skeleton together, postural muscles like hamstrings and large back muscles prevent the forces of gravity from pushing us over forward. And help maintain our posture and balance during movement.

 

 

Why is good posture important?

 

Correct posture:

 

 

Ø      helps us stand, walk, sit, and lie in positions that place the least strain on supporting muscles and ligaments

 

 

Ø      Helps us keep bones and joints in correct alignment so that our muscles are used correctly, decreasing the abnormal wearing of joint surfaces that could result in degenerative arthritis and joint pain.

 

 

Ø      Reduces the stress on the ligaments holding the spinal joints together, minimizing the likelihood of injury. 

 

 

Ø      Allows muscles to work more efficiently, allowing the body to use less energy and, therefore, preventing muscle fatigue.

 

 

Ø      Helps prevent muscle strain, overuse disorders, and even back and muscular pain.

 

 

 

 

What causes poor posture?

 

Several factors contribute to poor posture-most commonly, stress, obesity, pregnancy, weak postural muscles, abnormally tight muscles, and high-heeled shoes.  In addition, decreased flexibility, a poor work environment, incorrect working posture, and unhealthy sitting and standing habits can also contribute to poor body positioning.

 

 

Can I correct my poor posture?

 

In a word, yes. Remember, however, that long-standing postural problems will typically take longer to address than short-lived ones, as often the joints have adapted to your long-standing poor posture. Conscious awareness of your own posture and knowing what posture is correct will help you consciously correct yourself. With much practice, the correct posture for standing, sitting, and lying down will gradually replace your old posture. This, in turn, will help you move toward a better and healthier body position.

 

 

Santa Monica Chiropractic Clinic has a unique 5-stage posture program developed by Dr. Ramer that can assist you regaining the natural curves of the spine by correcting spinal misalignments and helping strengthen your core postural muscles.    

 

Call 310 255-0411 today to make an appointment and take the first step toward attaining perfect posture.

 

 

 

 

 

 

  

Dr. Ramer is a Santa Monica Chiropractor who Serves the Communities of Santa Monica, West Los Angeles, Venice, Marina Del Rey, Culver City, Playa Del Rey, Westwood, Mar Vista , Brentwood, Topanga from her Santa Monica Clinic

Dr. Ramer is a West Hollywood Chiropractor who also serves the Communities of Cheviot hills (city of los angeles), Sawtelle, Westwood, Palms, West Fairfax. West Hollywood, Westchester, Loyola Mount University. Beverly Hills, West Beverly, West Fairfax, Park La Brea, West Hollywood, Bel Aire, Los Angeles Mount Olympus, Bel Aire Estates, City of Los Angeles from her Los Angeles Clinic

CALL 310-255-0411 To Schedule an Appointment Today