Good posture is important for overall health and well-being. The natural posture of the body is designed to reduce muscle strain, work the core body muscles in tandem and align the head, vertebral column and hip bones. It is also beneficial for efficient breathing, digestion, fat metabolism and increasing energy. Symptoms of stress, fatigue and joint and muscle pain can often be alleviated with correct body posture.
Lower Back Pain
The natural curvature of the spine is ingeniously designed to bear the weight of the body and absorb shock from walking, running and other movements. The hollow in the small of the back above the pelvis (hip) bone is called the lumbar lordosis. Slouching or leaning forwards when standing or sitting rounds the back, stretching the ligaments and weakening the muscles of the lumbar spine. This can cause lower back pain, which can be corrected with correct posture and exercise to strengthen these muscles and ligaments.
Weak Stomach Muscles
The core body muscles, which include the muscles of the stomach or abdomen, are important in posture because they work in tandem with the muscles of the back to hold the body in correct alignment. Weak stomach muscles caused by excess fat, obesity or a lack of physical activity can cause incorrect posture. Conversely, poor posture can weaken these core abdominal muscles. Slouching and hunching over a laptop or desk does not use these muscles correctly, causing them to become slack and weakened over time.
Neck and Shoulder Pain
According to the Kansas Chiropractic Foundation, more than 80 percent of neck and upper back pain is caused by poor posture. Incorrect posture when standing or sitting can throw off the alignment of the back, shoulders and head, causing strain on the muscles and ligaments of the back, limbs and neck. This also causes muscle pain in the shoulders and legs as weight is shifted incorrectly to other parts of the body.
Headaches and Fatigue
Poor posture causes muscle tension that can also reduce blood flow throughout the body. Overstretched ligaments and tightened muscles due to incorrect alignment of the spine and head to the rest of the body can decrease blood flow, causing fatigue, low energy and headaches. Standing and sitting correctly helps to increase blood flow and metabolism, burns more fat and increases energy.
Inefficient Breathing and Digestion
The natural posture of the body not only aligns the skeletal system and the muscles that hold it together, it also keeps the internal organs in the correct position for optimum health. This allows the muscles of the ribcage and diaphragm aid the lungs in breathing deeply and correctly. It also allows the stomach and intestines to contract correctly for healthy digestion and absorption of nutrients. Poor posture can cause decreased lung capacity and digestive problems.
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