The short answer to this question is yes. Posture is as important to your overall health as diet, exercise, and restful sleep. Good posture allows you to function efficiently with less stress on your body and mind. Surprised? Most people are when they read that fact.
The reality is that your body was engineered to function through specific biomechanical patterns. When your posture is poor, these patterns become disrupted making it difficult for your muscles, joints and ligaments to operate as nature intended. This can lead to overuse injuries and impaired function.
The good news is, everyone can avoid the problems associated with bad posture…and changes can be effective at any age.
Good Posture = Good Health
Good posture indicates that your body is properly aligned and is functioning at peak efficiency. Standing or sitting tall allows your airways to function optimally, your digestive tract to keep things moving, and your nervous system to keep your vital organs functioning and in good health.
Breathe Easier
Try this, lean forward in your chair and reach your hands toward the floor, how does your breathing feel? Of course it feels more difficult. This is because you are reducing the amount of space in your chest and making it harder for your lungs to expand. While this is an extreme example, it shows that poor posture adds resistance to your airway making breathing more difficult.
Because poor posture decreases lung capacity it can lead to decreased function due to low oxygenation of your body cells. This can cause low energy, muscle fatigue, blood flow issues and headaches.
Lighten Your Load
Research into the effects of posture and function show that for every inch of forward head posture, the weight of your head on your spine increases by 10 pounds. Imagine what carrying a 27-pound head can do to your spine! Over time, forward head posture can lead to pain, muscle aches, tension and headaches. If uncorrected, it can also lead to degenerative changes and osteoarthritis.
What is the fix? Specific spinal adjustments and postural exercises can help your body return to its optimal biomechanical state. Your Doctors at Gulfside Chiropractic Health Center will perform a comprehensive exam including a posture evaluation to determine your treatment plan and to get you on the path to good health. We take the time to understand your body and your goals. Call now to take advantage of our New Practice Special!
At Gulfside Chiropractic Health Center we are here to help you achieve effective, long-term postural correction because we know that improving your posture will improve your life!
Call your Doctors at (239) 908-9762 to schedule your postural evaluation today!
