Can Good Posture Reduce Back Pain?
By Sara Butler
Too many Americans today deal with back pain. According to the American Chiropractic Association, 31 million Americans experience some level of back pain. Are you one of them?
You may be wondering why so many people experience back pain, but there’s not a simple answer to that question. Truthfully, there are many factors that can contribute to that ache in your back. If you’re looking for a way to reduce your chances, there is something you can do: Work on your posture. Your mother didn’t nag you all those years for no reason! Here’s how your posture can help to reduce your chances of experiencing back pain.
What to Avoid
There are several situations you are faced with through the course of your day that challenge your commitment to good posture. They include:
- Using your smartphone or handheld device – Many people tilt their head down while using their smartphone or tablet. This puts undue pressure on the neck, shoulders, and upper back that can result in discomfort and pain, as well as joint dysfunction and restriction.
- Slouching as you drive – When you’re in the car, you might catch yourself slouching down in the seat. Believe it or not, the muscles in your body are relaxed by the vibration of the car, which can add to your penchant for poor posture while driving. This causes the muscle in your back to work even harder to support you, eventually leading to pain.
- Carrying bags on one shoulder – When you lug around your bag, purse, or backpack on just one shoulder, you’re throwing off your center of balance when walking. This eventually leads to muscle imbalance as your body tries to stay upright. But it throws off your posture and natural gait in the process, contributing to back pain.
- Bending at the waist – When you do simple tasks such as brushing your teeth or lifting things from the floor, you may find yourself bending at the waist. This puts stress and strain on your back, which may already be taxed from practicing poor posture, and cause pain.
Talk to Your Chiropractor
Do you know who happens to be an expert in body mechanics and good posture? If you guessed your chiropractor, then good for you! If you want to improve your posture, then you have to know what good posture is – and your chiropractor can help you to understand.
If you want to avoid back pain in your future, then come into The Joint Chiropractic today to discuss how your posture may be impacting the health of your back.
To learn more about your health and wellness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic.