A great number of people suffer from the negative effects of bad posture and yet do not change the factors of their lives that cause them the problem.
Postural dysfunction or “Poor” posture is defined as when our spine is positioned in unnatural positions, in which the curves are emphasized and this results in the joints, muscles, and vertebrae being in stressful positions. This prolonged poor positioning results in a build-up of pressure on these tissues.
Painful conditions associated with poor posture are so common that most people have some firsthand knowledge of these problems. Low back pain is the most frequent complaint but research shows neck, shoulder, and arm pain has become increasingly widespread as a result of postural dysfunction. Foot and knee problems are also becoming more common due to the emphasis on running and fitness.
Symptoms of postural dysfunction may include painful and visible symptoms.
Painful Symptoms From Bad Posture
Body aches and pains including upper or lower back pain, neck, shoulder, and arm pain.Lower limb pain including leg and hip, knee or ankle pain Muscle fatigue Headaches due to a build-up on tension in the upper back, neck, and shoulders
Visible Symptoms
(See the diagram below for examples)
1. POOR Posture: Slouching, rounded shoulders, hunchback, tilting head forward, bent knees
2: GOOD posture. Balanced upright posture, with a straight line from the ear to the shoulder to the hip
3: POOR Posture.Shoulder blades excessively back, arching of the lower back, locked knees, pot belly
Contributing Factors To Postural Dysfunction
Lack of education or awareness of correct posture
Sedentary lifestyle
Occupational demands
Joint stiffness
Decreased fitness
Muscle weakness
Muscle tightness
Poor core stability
Physiotherapy treatment may significantly help to minimize, if not eliminate, postural dysfunction. Most patients will experience decreased pain once their posture is corrected.
Physiotherapy Treatment May Include:
Assessment and diagnosis of postural habits
Postural education and training
Manual therapy and soft tissue massage
Postural taping
Joint mobilisation
Corrective exercises and movements to improve flexibility, strength, and posture
Activity modification advice
Advice regarding ergonomic workstations
Pilates exercises
Do any of the above problems or symptoms sound familiar to you? Are you having any of the symptoms mentioned above? Don’t suffer from bad posture anymore when you can stop the ill effects today by coming to see one of our physiotherapists who can start you on the path to great posture. Book an appointment with us today and don’t waste any more time slouched over your desk at work!
Individuals who are now working from home in less-than-ideal situations due to the pandemic are probably those suffering the most and needlessly. Teachers especially suffer from many of the symptoms described by the end of the school year due to the increasing amount of computer work they do. This is the perfect time of year when the students are on summer break to address your issues before you return to teaching again in September.
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