Sitting Posture and Self Confidence: The Chiropractic Connection

Sitting is generally a harmless activity, but the way we sit can have a profound impact, not only on our well-being, but also on our self-image. That’s because as it turns out, good sitting posture is not just good for physical health; it’s also something that can significantly boost your confidence–big time.

This is according to a study that was performed by Ohio State University (OSU) and published in Science Daily. In fact, such a level of confidence can have a positive impact on your career trajectory.

Well, this gives you another reason to visit your chiropractor for posture. After all, a highly qualified one can perform spinal adjustments that can drastically improve your posture.

The link between posture and confidence

Sitting Posture and Self Confidence: The Chiropractic Connection

According to OSU researchers, those who were told to sit up straight and, therefore, sat up straight were more likely to believe that they were qualified for a particular job.

Also, a separate experiment at San Francisco State University (SFU) suggests that good posture is essential when it comes to boosting self-confidence. Per SFU researchers, by slumping, we are telling our subconscious selves that we are not safe. This may eventually take its toll on our self confidence.

On the one hand, it can be said that when we slouch or slump, we are–to some extent–communicating defeat as well as insecurity. On the other hand, when we sit straight or stand tall, we seem to exude competence and self-assurance. There goes the answer to your question, “What is the best posture for confidence?” So, with that in mind, even a subtle shift in posture–something that can be achieved through regular chiropractor for posture visits–can go a long way.

Effects of bad sitting posture

Bad sitting posture, if left unchecked, can lead to a number of physical problems: forward head posture, back pain, kyphosis, and so on.

Below is an extensive look at the ill effects of bad sitting posture:

  • Forward head posture

Forward head posture, in general, ranges from stiffness, neck pain, headache, and so on. As simple as it may seem, it should be noted that such a posture issue can lead to a wide range of physical ailments. The long list includes headache, neck pain, temporomandibular pain, and musculoskeletal disorders. In addition to all these, it can even heighten mortality rates among elderly men and women.

For reference, the head weighs about 10 to 12 pounds in a neutral position. However, when the forward posture is, say, 15 degrees out of alignment, the tension on the spine may increase to about 27 pounds. When forward to about 45 degrees, the tension may increase to about 49 pounds, and when forward to 60 degrees, the tension may skyrocket to approximately 60 pounds.

Putting the said factor into consideration, it can be said that forward head posture is something that should not be taken for granted.

  • Kyphosis

Kyphosis, in simple terms, is an extreme form of forward head posture. Its severe form is known to many as the hunchback. In line with this, it should be noted that the degree to which the head is hunched over is critical. This is because it plays a key role in determining the amount of dysfunction and pain that is going to be experienced due to the misalignment.

When you’re in a severe hunchback position, it’s a lot more difficult to walk and perform everyday tasks. Consequently, according to the National Institute of Health (NIH), elderly women with severe kyphosis have a 70% higher chance of developing fractures compared to their healthy counterparts.

  • Swayback

Swayback is a prevalent posture dysfunction that differs from healthy posture in several ways. Some of the most notable ones are elaborated below:
The hips, together with the pelvis, are in a forward-tilt position and in front of the head line.
The forward shift of the pelvis leads to an exaggerated inward curve in the lumbar spine or lower back.

If left untreated or mismanaged, swayback posture can lead to hip pain, knee pain, poor balance, muscle fatigue, and the like.

  • Text neck

Text neck is a repetitive stress injury that is caused by looking down at mobile phones (and other handheld devices), surfing the Internet, doing desk work, etc. It should be noted that it’s not an official medical diagnosis but rather a term that is used by many doctors and other medical practitioners.

If not addressed, it may lead to hunched shoulders, upper back pain, and degenerative changes in the cervical spine, which may lead to disc disease and osteoarthritis. The good news is a chiropractor can perform cervical spine adjustment and prevent such troublesome conditions.

How a Chiropractor for Posture can address poor sitting posture

Don’t push the panic button just yet if you’ve developed detrimental conditions due to poor sitting form. This is because there’s a chiropractor out there that can help you develop what is the best posture for confidence. Below are some notable treatments that he or she may implement:

  • Chiropractic Adjustment/Spinal Manipulation

A chiropractic adjustment is a tried and tested procedure wherein the right amount of pressure is applied to specific body parts to deliver the necessary adjustment. It is performed by a chiropractor for posture who has undergone extensive training to understand the delicacy of the process.

Don’t panic if you hear popping sounds during the treatment. They come from gas that’s discharged from the joints.

  • Work with strained tissues

A chiropractor can also treat the tissues on bones and attached muscles; together with cartilage, ligaments, and tendons. Treating the said tissues can help you achieve and maintain good posture. Along the way, muscle releases that are complemented by strengthening exercises are performed by a chiropractor.

  • Ergonomic and lifestyle advice

A chiropractor, as mentioned above, specializes in diagnosing the root cause of musculoskeletal pain. In line with this, they know that changing ergonomics is one of the best ways to drastically lessen the pain that developed due to an inappropriate working environment.

Some adjustments that a chiropractor will encourage may include the following:

    • Proper chair height
    • Correct sitting position
    • Right computer angle
    • The use of lumbar support
    • Maintaining an off-load position

In addition to ergonomic advice, a chiropractor can also identify factors that may be contributing to poor sitting posture. He or she may also offer tips on lifting and carrying heavy items, performing proper sleeping positions that give utmost support to the spine, and so on.

Summing up

There’s more to good posture than just vanity, in one way or another, it’s also about unleashing a more vibrant and undaunted version of yourself. A chiropractor for posture, with his or her knowledge on how the body works can be of huge help in your journey of transformation.

Looking for a chiropractor for posture that can help you achieve your best posture and the level of confidence that emanates from within? Posture Perfect has you covered. Contact us now and book an appointment. Our friendly and knowledgeable personnel can explain the whole process prior to your top-notch session.

/by

Posture Problems That Can be Fixed by a Chiropractor

According to Medical News Today, poor posture that’s coupled with a sedentary lifestyle, can cause the back muscles to weaken or decondition. For instance, slouching in a chair over a table or desk can cause gradual strength loss in the said muscles. In the process, this can boost the probability of strains and other detrimental conditions.

Over time, poor posture can also heighten the curvature of the thoracic spine. If left untreated, this can lead to pain and discomfort. This is where a chiropractor for posture comes in. A highly trained and experienced one can fix the root of your posture problem. Consequently, this can increase confidence, improve mood, boost productivity, reduce injury risk, and so much more.

In line with this, it’s best to become acquainted with some of the most common posture problems out there. By doing so, you’d know if it’s time to visit a chiropractor and undergo treatment. Read on to find out more.

Posture Problems That Can Be Fixed By A Chiropractor

Posture problems that can be addressed by a chiropractor for posture

  • Forward head posture

Forward head posture, or FHP, is defined as a posture where the head is held out or in front of its natural position, which is on top of the cervical spine. If you have FHP, chances are, you tilt your head back to look forward.

This posture needs to be addressed ASAP because it strains the neck muscles and joints. Afterward, it can lead to muscle imbalances due to the fact that some muscles provide more support than others.

Why FHP needs to be fixed: FHP can heighten compressive loading on cervical spine tissues, particularly in the facet joints as well as ligaments. In turn, this can adversely impact static balance and respiratory function.

  • Rounded shoulders

Rounded shoulders, which also go by the term forward shoulder posture, is a condition in which a resting shoulder position is moved forward from the body’s natural and ideal alignment. Studies suggest that rounded shoulders are quite prevalent nowadays because many spend countless hours hunched over smartphones, smart tablets, laptops, and the like. In fact, it has become so rampant that it has been been coined text neck by many medical professionals and clinicians.

Why rounded shoulders need to be fixed: Taking rounded shoulders for granted can lead to weakened muscles. Sooner or later, a forward pull of the head may take place, causing the neck to become overloaded. In the long run, disc herniation and/or a hunchback figure may take place.

Putting the said factors into consideration, it’s best to undergo treatment from a chiropractor for posture so as to make sure that more serious issues won’t arise.

  • Bent knees when walking or standing

If you find yourself standing or walking with obvious bent knees, it’s likely caused by more serious biomechanical imbalances. As insignificant as it may seem, bear in mind that such posture patterns may stem from tightness as well as weaknesses throughout your body.

Some conditions that contribute to bent knees when walking or standing are as follows:

    • Weak glutes and core

Your glutes as well as core muscles are essential when it comes to stabilizing the pelvis and, therefore, keeping you upright. That said, weakness in the said body parts may lead to an anterior or forward tilt of the pelvis and put an inappropriate amount of strain on the knees.

    • Stiff hip flexors

Extended hours sitting down may cause the hip flexors or the muscles that are located in front of the hips to shorten. This tightness or stiffness may further disrupt pelvic alignment.

    • Tight hamstrings

Tight hamstrings can pull the lower leg and contribute to bent-knee posture.

Why bent knees when walking or standing need to be fixed: This issue needs to be fixed the soonest since failure to do so may contribute to back, neck, or hip pain. This may prompt you to use more energy and, therefore, more fatigued when walking or standing.

  • Potbelly

As we become older, slouching, inactivity, and other bad habits cause muscle fatigue as well as tension. This paves the way to posture complications that include a potbelly. It should be noted that it’s not about having excessive fat in the abdominal region but a posture imbalance that pretty much creates an illusion of one.

A potbelly is caused by the following:

    • Weak core muscles

The abs and the rest of the core muscles provide appropriate support to the spine as well as internal organs. When they become weak, the said muscles won’t be able to counteract an exaggerated lumbar curve.

    • Prolonged sitting

Spending long hours sitting and in a hunchback position can put your body in a compromised position. This can lead to the accumulation of tightness in the hip flexors, general muscle imbalance, and weak core muscles that lead to potbelly posture.

Why potbelly posture needs to be fixed: If potbelly posture is not addressed, it can lead to a variety of conditions that include chronic back pain, increased injury risk, and accelerated degeneration. In addition to all these, it can also pave the way to digestive issues, breathing difficulties, and reduced energy levels, among others.

How a chiropractor for posture can fix common posture problems

A chiropractor for posture can effectively, efficiently, and safely restore spinal health and musculoskeletal function. Here’s how he or she can help:

  • Thorough assessment

A chiropractor analyzes your posture from different angles, examining for imbalances such as the ones that were elaborated above.

  • Range of motion and flexibility test

A chiropractor tests your movement patterns to pinpoint tight or weak areas that contribute to poor posture.

  • Targeted spinal adjustments

A chiropractor uses gentle as well as precise adjustments that target misaligned joints. By performing them, proper alignment may be restored, and pressure on the nerves may be significantly reduced. This may eventually improve muscle function and, therefore, posture. Consequently, this can pave the way to improved overall health and well-being.

  • Address tightness and weakness

A chiropractor identifies and focuses on muscle imbalances via stretching, trigger point therapy, and massages. He or she also recommends specific exercises that can strengthen weak muscles.

So, if you’re asking, “Can I correct my posture with exercise?” The answer is yes, but they need to be approved by a chiropractor for posture. This is to ensure that their benefits are going to be enjoyed to their full potential and reduce the risk of injuries along the way.

Summing up

It should be noted that there’s more to good posture than meets the eye since body alignment has a direct connection to overall health. Here, becoming acquainted with posture issues is already half the battle if you want to optimize your fitness level and well-being.

Thankfully, there’s a chiropractor for posture at Posture Perfect who understands the said connection and possesses the knowledge and expertise that can help you unlock better health.

Book an appointment now and let our experts fix your posture problems.

/by

A Chiropractor’s Guide To Posture: How Good Posture Can Improve Overall Health

Good posture, which is having the backbone or the spine in neutral alignment, is something that is overlooked by many. This should not be the case because it is essential when it comes to ensuring that one’s body mechanics is not compromised.

Putting the said factor into consideration, it should not be surprising why many opt to be treated by a chiropractor for posture. With regular sessions, proper posture can be achieved and repeated movements that place undue stress on the joints can be addressed. In the long run, it can help maintain balance, reduce fatigue, and keep the body flexible.

A study on postural and overall wellness

In 2013, University of Baguio conducted a study that involved 281 participants, and of the said number, 85% experienced some level of postural deviations or asymmetries. This posed a serious concern for the postural and overall wellness of employees and students.

Consequently, the participants manifested postural faults commonly along the anteroposterior view and subsequently along the forward head posture as well as lateral view test. It paved the way to poor posture and contributed to the development of other musculoskeletal symptoms.

The respondents used over-the-counter drugs to treat pain instead of asking health professionals, “Can I correct my posture with exercise?” and performing lifestyle changes.

Even though the said study has a small sample size, it can give an idea of how posture problems can compromise overall health. That said, it’s best to take a closer look at the issue and find out how a chiropractor for posture can help.

Chiropractor for posture: How adjustments and manipulations can help

A chiropractic adjustment, which is also known as spinal manipulation, is a hands-on method that is commonly performed by a chiropractor for posture to treat conditions that are related to the spine. In general, it involves applying sudden and controlled force to specific joints in the spine and/or other body parts to improve joint function and reduce pain. This, in turn, can promote overall wellness by promoting natural healing.

During an adjustment session, a chiropractor applies manual pressure to manipulate targeted joints. It may also include gentle stretching, controlled thrusts, or sustained pressure, among others. Take note that the methods that are going to be used are based on a patient’s condition and the assessment of the said professional.

Here is a detailed breakdown of how a chiropractor can enhance posture:

Realign the spine

A realigned spine can improve posture, reduce pain, and lessen the symptoms of chronic ailments such as osteoarthritis. Below are two methods that are used to achieve the said spine condition.

    • Correct subluxations – Here, a chiropractor for posture identifies and corrects subluxations or misalignments in the spine. They need to be addressed the soonest since they can put inappropriate pressure on the nerves.

Also, if left untreated, they may distort the natural curves of the spine and lead to poor posture. In the long run, this may lead to the development of a hunchback.

    • Targeted adjustments – Targeted adjustments utilize controlled force to certain areas of the spine. If done properly, they can restore optimum alignment and lessen pressure on the nerves. Consequently, this can help muscles perform effectively and efficiently.

Reduce muscle tension and imbalance

A chiropractor can help reduce muscle tension and imbalance by addressing muscle compensation, particularly in the spine.

It’s important to note that tension and imbalance may prompt the muscles to compensate by inappropriately increasing their activity in an effort to stabilize the spine. This may cause them to become overactive and tight or underactive and weak, creating an imbalance that may distort posture.

With spinal adjustments, the spine’s proper alignment is restored. This can reduce the probability of muscle tension, regain balance, and enhance posture.

Increase range of motion

In simple terms, joint range of motion refers to how far and in what ways a joint can move. It becomes limited with age or due to muscle pain, stiffness, and the like.

The good news is that all is not lost for those who experience reduced range of motion because a chiropractor can release tension in the surrounding muscles and ligaments. In turn, this can improve the joint’s overall range of motion.

Promote body awareness

Chiropractors, in general, don’t just perform spinal adjustments as well as manipulations; they also offer guidance on proper posture and body mechanics. This can be extremely beneficial, especially in the long run because it can help identify and fix bad posture habits. Consequently, it can aid in improving and maintaining better posture even outside of chiropractic sessions.

 Exercises that can complement chiropractic care

Patients need to be cautious when working out after a chiropractic session. As to the question, “Can I correct my posture with exercise?” The answer is yes. But it’s best to wait at least 30 minutes to an hour after a chiro session. This is important since ample time is necessary to allow the joints to stabilize and the muscles to become aligned to the changes that are made by the chiropractor for posture.

Below are some exercises that can help improve posture and complement chiropractic care:

    • Back and core exercises

Simple and easy-to-perform exercises such as plank, child’s pose, cat-cow, etc., can offer essential benefits for the lower and middle back. They can go hand in hand with chiropractic care by safely promoting spinal flexibility, strengthening the core muscles, and so forth.

    • Gentle lunges and leg stretches

Adding gentle lunges and leg stretches to workout routines can enhance alignment and build lower body strength, which can maximize the benefits of pelvic adjustments.

    • Wall stretches and shoulder rolls

Wall stretches and shoulder rolls are exercises that can be done practically anywhere and they can make a huge difference in one’s range of motion in the shoulder area. They work together with chiro shoulder adjustments to boost flexibility, reduce muscle tension, fix muscle imbalances, and improve posture.

    • Neck tilts and rotations

Gentle as well as concise neck tilts and rotations can improve flexibility and strength, which are crucial when it comes to supporting cervical adjustments. This can help patients move better since stiffness in the said body part is reduced. To add, the said exercise can also cut down the risk of neck injuries.

Summing up

In the end, individuals who often notice themselves developing a hunchback during work, slouching while watching TV, or constantly aching from a chronic case of “tech neck” are encouraged to visit a reputable chiropractor for posture. Poor posture may be the culprit and it’s best to undergo holistic remedies in the mold of chiropractic care to reclaim good posture, optimize body mechanics, and achieve a pain-free body.

Ready to address your poor posture the chiropractic way? Contact us, and our friendly personnel will guide you through the whole process and more.

/by