The Importance of Posture and Chiropractic Care

"Stand up straight!" Who has not heard that from their gym teacher or parent? For most people, this was something they might have never paid attention to. It was just something grownups would say. But as you grow older, you begin to see its importance, especially if you play a sport. If you have never played a sport, you may have had times when it did not matter, and those times became every time.

Poor posture is one of the leading causes of back pain for people who work in offices. When working at the office, posture is barely on your mind. You will most likely be referred to a chiropractor when you have back pain from poor posture. These healthcare professionals are experts in musculoskeletal conditions.

What is Posture?

Posture refers to the body's alignment when sitting or standing. It involves the use of different muscles in the body, which also differ depending on whether you are sitting or standing. Some primary muscle groups that help maintain good posture are the hamstrings, abdominal muscles, and the larger back muscles. They maintain straightness and keep the body from falling forward under gravity.

Why is Posture Important?

Posture is important because it is your body's best and most natural position. It is so because when you have good posture, your weight is evenly distributed, exerting the slightest strain.

Less Strain

Good posture ensures your joints are well aligned and less likely to be injured. Your muscles and ligaments are also well set up and under less strain.

Avoiding Wear Early On

Correct joint alignment helps preserve your joints from premature wear. Wearing away your joints usually leads to developing issues in the future, like joint pain and arthritis.

Less Spinal Pain

Poor posture significantly strains your neck and spine, leading to back and neck pain complaints. With proper posture, you will be less likely to complain, even if you spend hours at the office.

Efficient Muscle Use

With proper posture, your muscles will work as they should. Your body will not need to expend excessive energy to accomplish simple tasks. Your muscles will not be under excessive strain, which is common in poor posture.

How Does a Chiropractor Assess Your Posture?

When you go to a chiropractor for back issues, one of the first things they do is assess your posture. They consider the following:
 

• Your walk and gait

• Alignment of your knees

• Level of your hips

• Shoulder height

• Neck and head posture

• Pelvis tilt

How Does a Chiropractor Help With Posture?

Spinal Adjustments

These are the primary tools for chiropractors to correct musculoskeletal misalignment. They will restore your body's proper alignment and repair the damage done by poor posture.

Physiotherapy

A chiropractor may use physiotherapy to help your body heal from the damage of poor posture. It may include various exercises and massages to help relax and strengthen the body.

Posture Education

A chiropractor will teach you how to maintain proper posture when working and walking. This part of the treatment ensures you do not have the same issues in the future.

For more on posture and chiropractic care, visit Knecht Chiropractic Center at our office in Sanford, NC. Call (919) 629-0400 to book an appointment today.