Poor posture is an often-overlooked aspect of overall wellbeing. However, it’s frequently the silent contributor to a range of health concerns. Dr Gary Edwards will discuss the often subtle but significant signs of poor posture, providing a guide to intervene and correct posture before it escalates to severe health complications.
Identifying Signals of Bad Posture
Dr Gary Edwards Spotting the signs of poor posture can be complex as they often gradually merge with day-to-day aches and pains. Be attentive to these common indications:
• Stooped or Rounded Shoulders – Often dubbed as the ‘office worker’s hunch’, this is a tell-tale sign of bad posture, caused by prolonged periods of sitting or leaning forward.
• Forward Head Carriage – This occurs when the head extends forward instead of remaining above the balanced spinal column. It is usually associated with prolonged laptop or mobile phone use.
• Back Pain – One of the most common signs of bad posture is chronic back pain. The strain on the back from incorrect posture can lead to continuous discomfort.
• Neck Pain and Headaches – Persistent neck pain and frequent headaches can be a result of stress placed on the neck due to poor posture.
• Muscle Fatigue and Weakness – Poor posture tends to overwork certain muscles, leading to regular tiredness or even a decrease in overall strength.
The Consequences of Disregarded Posture
If left unattended, poor posture can progress into more severe health issues such as chronic back, neck, and shoulder pain, repetitive strain injuries, and joint dysfunction. It may even affect digestion and respiratory function due to pressure on the internal organs.
Correcting Poor Posture
An understanding of the signals of bad posture acts as the first step towards improvement. Regular exercise focusing on strengthening key posture-maintaining muscles, including the core and back, can significantly improve body alignment.
Dr Gary Edwards Other than that, evaluating and modifying daily activities and workspace ergonomics also helps. This includes correct sitting and standing positions, suitable desk and chair height, and regular breaks to stretch and move.
