Don't Be a Slouch! Why You Should Stand Up
By Genevieve Cunningham
Have you ever noticed how toddlers have near perfect posture? Whether they’re sitting on the floor playing, walking about, or running around with friends, their posture is impeccable. As we grow out of the toddler phase through childhood and into adulthood, something changes. We lose this posture and trade it in for quite a slouch. But why does this happen? Does it even matter? And what can we do to get back to that confident, healthy stance of our youth?
What Causes Bad Posture?
Poor posture can be the result of many sources. For some, it might be a medical condition that forces them to stoop or slouch. For others, it may boil down to a lack of confidence or self-esteem. And yet for many others, it’s the simple wear and tear of life that causes them to slouch the shoulders and round the back. The biggest problem? Once bad posture becomes a habit, it can cause restriction in the back, which then leads to pain. And what’s worse, bad habits such as this are incredibly hard to break.
Why Does Your Posture Matter?
It’s easy to dismiss poor posture as an appearance problem. After all, we tend to look shorter and heavier when we slouch, as opposed to when we stand up straight. But the problems associated with slouching are much greater. Poor posture can lead to pain in the back and neck, joint restriction in the spine, poorly functioning body systems, and a dip in mental wellness.
How Can You Improve Your Posture Now?
Improving your posture will take both time and patience. It doesn’t happen overnight, and it’s actually a lot of work. For starters, incorporate exercises that strengthen the back, the core, and the shoulders. It can also be beneficial to put reminders all over your house. A note on the mirror that says “Stand Up!” and an alarm that beeps four or five times a day might help you keep posture in the forefront of your mind. Another great technique is to get chiropractic care. Chiropractors will help to eliminate joint restriction, reduce pain in the afflicted area, improve your flexibility and range of motion, and enhance the overall health of your spine. They may also have some other great recommendations for changing your posture for the better.
If you’re ready to stop being a slouch and stand up straight and tall, get a little help from chiropractors at The Joint Chiropractic. The Joint makes the entire process of getting care much easier. You can use their walk-in visits and affordable pricing plan to enjoy care without the stress and hassle attached. Improving your posture may take some work, but the healthy results will be worth the trouble. Move toward a healthier body and a top-notch posture starting with a quick trip to The Joint today.
To learn more about your health and wellness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic.
