Bad posture doesn't just affect your appearance. Chronic poor posture can cause other problems that make it difficult to accomplish simple daily activities. Combine good posture with other healthy habits, like regular exercise and a well-balanced diet, to reduce your chances of short- and long-term health problems.
Fatigue
You might think that fatigue is what keeps you from standing up straight, but studies show that the opposite may actually be the case, according to Dr. Erin Van Veldhuizen of Van Family Chiropractic. When the head, shoulders and spine are not properly aligned, excess pressure is placed on the spine and shoulders and blood flow to the muscular tissues decreases. This can cause you to feel weak and fatigued. In fact, as noted in "What Nurses Know," poor posture may even contribute to more serious conditions like chronic fatigue syndrome and fibromyalgia.
Headaches
Anyone who ex[periences chronic headaches knows how debilitating they can be. In an article published in "Yoga Journal," Dr. Tomas Brofeldt of the University of California's Davis Medical Center describes how bad posture can contribute to regular headaches. Brofeldt explains that poor posture puts stress on the muscles of the neck, especially the semispinalis capitis muscles, which triggers neck pain as well as chronic headaches. People who work at desks for long periods of time may be more prone to posture-related headaches, due to neck strain to see a computer screen.
Back Pain
Poor posture can cause extreme, chronic pain your back and neck. Excess pressure on the discs, muscles and joints of the spine can trigger intense pain that may manifest as spasms or constant dull pain. Lower back pain is one of the most common symptoms of bad posture, according to the Kansas Chiropractic Association. Many years of poor posture can increase your chances of suffering from joint conditions like degenerative osteoarthritis later in life.
Solution
To prevent undesirable health conditions, make sure that you stand and sit with proper posture. If you work in an office every day, consider purchasing an ergonomic chair to help you maintain proper posture in the seated position, and be sure to take stretching breaks throughout the day. Incorporate physical activity into your daily routine to keep your muscles flexible and toned. A strong core helps you maintain proper posture at all times, so try workouts that emphasize the core, like pilates, yoga or weight-bearing exercise.
