Good Posture: Here's Why It Matters For Your Spine and How It Can Be Improved

Posture generally refers to a person's natural way of holding their body.

How important is good posture? This article will reveal the answer.

Posture Explained

Posture is the position of the body while moving or sitting still. It is generally maintained by the musculoskeletal system. Tendons, ligaments, and muscles all work together with joints across the body to control one's position at all times.

These muscles, tendons, and ligaments adjust the body to hold it in a comfortable and stable shape. It is how one may stay in place when staying still and without sliding off a chair.

Posture changes also enable certain movements. If the body was unable to change its shape, people would have been stuck in a single position, similar to a mannequin.

Each person has a natural and unique posture, though there are general rules to follow for proper posture in order to prevent certain issues.

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Proper Posture and Why It Matters

While a perfect or imperfect posture does not exist, there are general rules that one may follow in order to support the body. The best way to keep proper posture is to protect the curves of the spine.

Naturally, the spine has three curves. They can be found in the lower back (lumbar spine), middle of the back (thoracic spine), and the neck (cervical spine). The three curves give an uppercase-S gentle curve.

It is important for one's posture to not be flexed or bent in a manner that adds an extra curve to any spinal section.

Moreover, correct posture could aid in reducing body strain during exercise and movement, reducing joint wear-and-tear, maintaining balance during exercise and movement, improving spinal health, and reducing muscle strain and overuse risk.

While the body automatically controls posture, there are some things that can help with maintaining a healthy and good posture. These include keeping the head over the shoulders, holding the shoulders from over the hips, and keeping the lower body in a position that is stable. Such tips help keep the spine aligned.

Proper posture is crucial as it could help prevent typical pains and aches in the shoulders, neck, and back. Moreover, having a safe, dynamic posture could also help with injury prevention.

Keeping good posture could also help minimize the wear and tear of the joints, especially within the spine. While proper posture may not entirely prevent joint conditions, such as arthritis, it may reduce joint stress.

Other ways to improve one's posture may include being conscious about posture in short bursts, activating the core muscles, wearing comfortable and well-fitting shoes, and adhering to a healthy diet and exercise plan.