Posture And Your Health

A Chiropractor specialises in body mechanics, and places considerable emphasis on the body's structural, muscular and neurological components. Because there is a considerable emphasis on these aspects and how they relate to health, the focus is aimed at maintaining sound body mechanics and good posture.

Humans are one of a small group of animals who are bipeds (standing on two legs). While this posture gives humans the advantage of agility, leverage and mobility, it also creates certain structural stresses. The weight of the body provides a continuous pull of gravity which can cause postural imbalances in the feet. Because the human body is like a chain of interconnected links (weightbearing joints), improper movements at the lowest link (foot & ankle) can cause abnormal movement or twisting at other such links further up the chain, eg, the knee, hip, pelvis and spine. These abnormal movements often produce stress pain. So, even if your feet don't hurt they may be contributing pain in another part of your body. Flexible, custom made orthotics are designed to work with chiropractic care to help restore postural balance and relieve pain. The most obvious benefit of good posture is efficiency and comfort.

While people with good posture stand straighter and look better, there are advantages to correct posture that go way beyond appearance. The human body, like any other machine, to function properly is dependant on balance, rhythm, timing and coordinated action of all your components. Correct posture enables the body to function more eficiently.

Posture affects how people see you and how you see yourself. It reflects your personality, your confidence, your attitude, your ability......... and your health. There is a relationship between how you stand, sit, walk, and how you feel.

The effects of poor posture can be serious in terms of health, comfort and efficiency, causing fatigue. Many problems can be helped. If you or a member of your family have what appears to be a postural problem, you should seek the advice of a chiropractor. Unless there is an anatomical or pathological disturbance, the chance for correction or improvement are good.  Recovering from chronic low back pain can require a specific spinal rehabilitation programme, consisting of effective back pain exercises.

If not corrected poor posture could contribute to the accelerated degeneration of spinal and other joints and discs. Lack of energy and poor coordination are just two of the many symptoms of a body that is not functioning properly.

Poor posture may result from a variety of causes. From simple issues such as improper ergonomic computer work stations or chairs, to more complex problems with repetitive motion injuries, posture can still have an impact on your health.

What are the benefits of correct posture?

1. Improves your health
2. Improves your appearance
3. Improves your coordination
4. Increases your strength

5. Gives more stamina

6. Improves confidence
7. Improves balance and agility
8. Lowers chance of injury
9. Decreases the chance of pain!

If in doubt ask the opinion of your Reading chiropractor, or book in for an examination!