Wall Angels for Better Posture? Dr. Dustin DebRoy Explains Why This Stretch Matters

Dr. Dustin DebRoy, manager of chiropractic education and relations for The Joint Chiropractic, was recently featured in a Fit & Well article highlighting the benefits of wall angels for posture and upper-body alignment. In the piece, Dr. DebRoy explains how this simple yet challenging stretch can help retrain postural muscles, improve spinal awareness, and support long-term alignment. He explains why consistent movement patterns are important and how the wall angel can serve as a “reset button” for your body after hours of sitting or screen time. Read the full article titled "This dynamic stretch is like a ‘reset button’ for your upper-body posture, according to an expert."

You’ve heard of planks and crunches, but what about wall angels?

In a recent Fit & Well article, Dr. Dustin DebRoy, manager of chiropractic education and relations for The Joint Chiropractic, offered expert insights into one of the most underrated posture exercises: the wall angel. This simple yet powerful stretch may help realign your spine, reduce upper-body tension, and increase awareness of healthy posture habits.

“The wall angel can serve as a powerful reminder of what it feels like to engage proper posture,” Dr. DebRoy shared. “The more time we spend in those postures, the more likely our bodies will default to them.”

Let’s break down what wall angels do, why they matter, and how to get the most out of them.

What is a wall angel?

A wall angel resembles making a snow angel while standing. Start with your back flat against a wall, feet a few inches in front, and arms bent at ninety degrees in a goalpost position. From there, slowly raise and lower your arms, keeping your shoulders, head, and back in contact with the wall.

It sounds easy. It is not.

Most people struggle to maintain full contact with the wall because daily life pulls us out of alignment. Over time, this movement can help retrain the muscles in your upper back, shoulders, and core to work together and support healthier posture.

Why posture needs a reset

Long hours spent at a desk, driving, or looking down at a screen can cause the shoulders to round forward and the upper back to weaken. This posture pattern, often referred to as “tech neck” or upper crossed syndrome, is a common occurrence that can lead to discomfort or long-term misalignment.

Wall angels help correct this pattern by activating the muscles that support the spine. They promote controlled movement of the shoulder blades and teach the body what proper posture should feel like.

“Postural correction isn’t achieved overnight,” says Dr. DebRoy. “But regular movement that reinforces healthy alignment, like the wall angel, can help you build awareness and endurance in those postural muscles.”

How to make wall angels part of your routine

Dr. DebRoy recommends practicing wall angels daily, especially if you sit for extended periods or experience tension in your upper back and shoulders. A few reps done with intention may offer more benefit than rushing through the motion.

Here are a few tips to get started:

• Start with quality over quantity. Aim for slow, smooth movement and stop if you feel discomfort.
• Engage your core. This helps protect your lower back and maintain better alignment.
• Pay attention to form. If your arms or back come off the wall, reset and try again.
• Pair with breathwork. Deep breathing can support mind-body awareness and reduce tension.

When to seek professional support

Wall angels can help improve posture, but they are not a replacement for chiropractic care. If you are experiencing chronic discomfort, limited mobility, or ongoing alignment issues, a licensed chiropractor can evaluate your spine and provide a personalized care plan tailored to your specific needs.

At The Joint Chiropractic, we believe that better movement starts with a well-aligned spine. Whether you are working on posture, looking to reduce pain, or simply want to feel more balanced and mobile, we are here to support your goals with convenient, affordable care.

Looking for a reset? Visit The Joint to talk with a licensed chiropractor about posture, movement, and the everyday habits that support your well-being.