We all know we would should probably take more care of our posture. Do we know why we should do this? Here are my top reasons for the importance of maintaining a good posture:
1 Poor posture may not cause pain or problems immediately. However, if you hold your body awkwardly or out of balance for any length of time. You will inevitably be compressing, tightening, weakening and over-stretching areas. This might then be the slow build-up for potential issues in the future. Perhaps when you challenge your body, it won’t be able to cope and you may suffer an injury. HELP TO PREVENT INJURY.
2 For similar reasons to number 1. If you hold your body in a way that stresses it. It maybe that wear and tear of these compromised areas could occur more quickly, or to a greater degree. HELP TO REDUCE THE INCIDENCE/SEVERITY OF WEAR AND TEAR/OSTEOARTHRITIS.
3 A poor posture may effect other body systems, not just the muscles and joints. A change in position could mean you don’t breathe as well as you might. This may effect the mechanics of respiration, your body’s ability to take in oxygen and expel CO2. A slumped posture might also have negative knock-on effects on circulation and digestion as you compress and restrict the diaphragm and abdomen. IMPROVE GENERAL WELLBEING.
4 Not only do we function and feel better as a whole with good posture, we also look better too. AESTHETIC IMPROVEMENTS.
POINTS TO CONSIDER
We’re all different, and quite possibly asymmetrical. We may have different predispositions for posture relating to disability, natural structure, occupation and activity. Some of these things can be worked on and improved. We can only do our best with what we have.
Try and consider balance in your body, between left and right, and front and back. So think about how you position yourselves in an activity. The shoes you wear, how you carry a bag……..any daily activity you regularly undertake.
To make improvements first identify risk factors in your day-to-day life. Then think how you may reduce them. Try and lead an active lifestyle, also giving yourself time for good quality rest, sleep and repair. Consider exercises that will help improve your mobility, and increase your strength for postural support.
Osteopathy can help if there are any problems. Treatment will address the issue and advice can be given for long term prevention.
