At Mandurah Spine and Sport, we pride ourselves on our commitment to understanding the intricacies of spinal health. Among the myriad of factors influencing your spine’s well-being, posture stands out as a key player. Let’s delve into the intricate connection between posture and spinal health.

Understanding Posture

Posture isn’t just about standing tall or sitting without slouching. It encompasses how we hold our bodies while standing, sitting, and even lying down. Proper posture ensures that our muscles and ligaments are used correctly, and that the stress on our spine is evenly distributed.

The Backbone of the Issue: How Poor Posture Affects the Spine

Increased Strain and Stress: Spending prolonged periods of time in any position can increase the strain on our spine, putting increased stress on the muscles and ligaments that keep us upright and added pressure on spinal discs.

Muscular Imbalance: Over time, poor posture can result in increased tension through the muscles that are constantly being used (overused in many cases) and reduce the strength through those that are not, leading to an imbalance that can result in pain through the neck, shoulders, mid and lower back.

The Physical Signs: How to Spot Posture-Related Spinal Issues

Prolonged poor posture can result in a sensation of stiffness and have you feeling like you constantly want to stretch or rub those sore spots through your neck, back and shoulders.

Desk Work: Many people spend hours sitting at a desk using a computer or a device. We often sit with a forward head posture in these instances, placing increased strain through the neck as it supports the head in this position for long periods. This can result in the neck muscles feeling stiff and sore as they try to support more load than they are capable of.

Lower Back Pain: When spending long periods in a flexed position (i.e. bending forward or sitting), the load through our lumbar spine (muscles, ligaments and discs) increases. Prolonged periods in such a position doesn’t always allow these structures to rest and they become tired, stiff and sore. 

Posture and Activity: The Sports Connection

Athletes and weekend sports warriors should be especially cautious. For the reasons noted above, poor posture can compromise performance as the muscles through your neck, shoulders and lower back may already be fatigued by your work week. If you carry this into a weekend game where you require explosive or dynamic movement, your risk of injury is increased. At Mandurah Spine and Sport, our team recognises the importance of posture and how it relates to sports. We guide you in maintaining a healthy posture during physical activities.

Tips to Improve Posture for Better Spinal Health

Here are some handy tips to follow to improve your posture:

Stay Active and Engaged

One of the most beneficial ways to nurture a healthy spine is by embracing a consistent routine of physical activity. Regular exercise doesn’t just keep you fit; it fortifies the muscles that keep us upright and provides invaluable support for your spine. 

The Importance of Workplace Ergonomics

Many of us find ourselves anchored to our desks for hours on end. If that’s the case, it’s imperative to ensure that our workspace promotes spinal health. Your chair should provide adequate lumbar support, and your keyboard and monitor set up should encourage a neutral spine position while sitting. The little adjustments can make a world of difference in preventing unwanted strains. If possible, a sit/stand desk is a great way to provide regular positional change to avoid overusing your neck, shoulders and back while at work.

Remember to Take Regular Breaks

Even with the most ergonomic setup, sitting for extended periods can be detrimental. Make it a habit to break the monotony. Every hour, rise from your seat and take a brief walk. This can be around the office or just to the kitchen to grab a coffee or tea. Not only does this benefit your spine, but it also boosts circulation and helps with concentration.

Consultation with Experts

While self-help has its benefits, there’s no substitute for expert advice. Professionals, such as our experienced team at Mandurah Spine and Sport, possess the knowledge and expertise to guide you with personalised recommendations. Our chiros and physios can identify any unique challenges you might face and provide tailored solutions. We offer expert solutions through our posture correction services that can relieve spinal injuries.

Prioritising Posture for Lifelong Spinal Health

In the intricate world of health and well-being, posture plays a pivotal role. The good news is that with awareness, dedication, and the right guidance (like what we offer at Mandurah Spine and Sport), improved posture and optimal spinal health are within reach.

Don’t wait for aches and pains to dictate your actions. Take control, prioritise your posture, and pave the way for a healthier spine and a better quality of life.