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Improve Your Posture, Improve Your Life

How many times growing up did you hear, “Sit up straight!”


Your parents were right to be concerned about your posture!


Poor posture can be defined as when our spine is held in an unnatural position. When we think of our spine, it's important to remember:

  • Your spine houses your nerves.

  • Your nerves control every aspect of your body.


According to the American Journal of Pain Management, posture affects and moderates every physiological function from breathing to hormone production.


Good or bad, posture affects:

  • Lung capacity

  • Blood pressure

  • Hormone regulation

  • Muscle and skeletal function

  • Digestion

  • Homeostasis and autonomic regulation (your body’s normal healthy state, controlled without conscious effort)


When you have good posture, your body’s muscles, joints and ligaments work more efficiently, allowing your organs and nervous systems to function properly and as intended.


Physical symptoms of poor posture

  • Upper or lower back pain

  • Neck or shoulder pain

  • Tension headaches

  • Limb pain or numbness

  • Fatigue


Common causes of poor posture

  • Past injuries or pain

  • Mental and physical stress

  • Excess weight and/or a sedentary lifestyle

  • Muscle weakness, tightness, weak core muscles

  • Work demands and lifestyle choices

  • Limited range of motion (muscle or joint)

  • High heels and restrictive clothing


Help for poor posture


Make a habit to be mindful of your posture several times a day and work towards improvement.

  1. Pull your shoulders back and down your spine, bringing them in line with your neck

  2. Straighten and lengthen your spine

  3. Bring your shoulders and hips in line and engage your stomach muscles

  4. Be sure your head is positioned straight up from your neck


Helpful treatments to improve your posture

  • Chiropractic adjustment

  • Soft tissue manipulation - massage therapy

  • Stretching to help with flexibility and range of motion

  • Strengthening exercises

  • Chiropractic advice for improved ergonomics in your home, work and active life


Your chiropractor can assess and diagnose your posture and determine the best methods, exercises and actions to help you improve your posture and spinal health. For more information or to book your chiropractic appointment for your postural assessment, please call our office: 519-258-8544



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