Physical Effects of Improper Posture

We’re all constantly reminded about the importance of having good posture. It’s been embedded into our culture that sitting tall while holding your head high reveals health, poise, and professionalism from each individual who practices proper posture, but besides visually looking well, good posture is essential because it keeps us healthy from within.

When an individual maintains a proper posture, the muscles and other tissues supporting the structure of the neck and back remain strong while the spine preserves its natural and healthy alignment. Studies have previously concluded that good posture can help you have more energy, less stress, as well as prevent fatigue. As a matter of fact, good posture is crucial if you want to maintain an ideal physical fitness. Ultimately, a proper posture is a sign of good health.

If you have bad posture, not only will it create spine complications along with pain and discomfort in the present, but gradually, improper posture can have negative effects later in life if not corrected in time.

One of the most distinguished negative effects associated among individuals with improper posture includes a change in the spinal curve. The spine is naturally designed to have a slight S-shaped curvature, however, after an extended period of time practicing incorrect posture when sitting or standing, the spine is put under a tremendous amount of pressure. This occurs because the spine is repeatedly being forced into an unnatural position. The altered spinal curve can not only lead to chronic pain and discomfort, but it can impede the spine from naturally absorbing shock as well as maintain proper balance.

Also, studies have found that sitting all day with bad posture can impact the digestive organs. Poor posture can actually compress the digestive organs and restrict them from functioning to their full potential. As a result, the body’s normal digestive process can be greatly slowed down, affecting the individual’s metabolism. Over time, long-term compression of the digestive organs can severely debilitate the body’s ability to consume and process food. You may ultimately face life-altering metabolic issues if the improper posture is not corrected.

Both an Australian study on poor posture and life expectancy and an English study on poor posture and sitting concluded that individuals who consistently sit using back posture have an increased risk of developing cardiovascular complications. Another study found that individuals who sit most of the day had an increased chance of 147% in developing cardiovascular disease. Additionally, sitting for extended periods of time prevents the body from getting the necessary circulation it needs, leading to the formation of varicose veins, veins that have become enlarged and twisted. This issue is particularly common in women.

Many people who maintain poor posture may suffer from chronic back pain and spending enough time sitting with bad posture can eventually cause disc degeneration. These complications are often diagnosed back to posture problems due to the extra stress that has been put on the spine.

Overall, improper posture impacts much more than the way you look. Once you’ve become aware of your own body’s posture, its important to take the time to stand up and move throughout your day, sitting up straight with your shoulders back and your spine straight as well as make sure to visit your chiropractor for regular adjustments. Taking a moment in your life to do these things can not only help you have a better posture, but it can also prevent you from dealing with numerous health complications in the future.

By Dr. Alex Jimenez