Slouching, staring at screens, constantly in a seated position? All of these things wear down the muscles in our body, attributing to bad posture. We remind ourselves to stand up straight, wanting to feel taller or look slimmer, but proper posture is more important than appearance. May is National Correct your Posture Month. This post will share 4 benefits of proper posture that go beyond having a nice stance.

4 Benefits of Proper Posture

Pain Relief

Tension in the neck and shoulders, lower back pain, joint issues, headaches; all of these things can result from poor posture. Our muscles and skeletal system don’t have to work so hard to support one part of our body over another by standing correctly. When we slouch, lean to one side, or cross our legs while sitting, we strain different muscle groups. Proper posture, including desk posture, can keep strain from occurring, relieving discomfort and keeping pain at bay.

Breathe Easier

Is there any better feeling than taking a full, deep breath? Research shows that posture can affect lung capacity. Looking down at a phone or sitting in a scrunched position can inhibit the ability to fill our lungs and reduce respiratory function. Adequate oxygen intake plays an important role in daily functioning. Keep your body working at optimal levels by paying attention to your posture.

Good Posture Strengthens the Core

Good posture and core strength go hand in hand. Maintaining proper posture will help keep the core strong. On the flip side, if your posture could use some work, strengthening the core will help correct your posture. Core strength is essential for balance, stability, and completing daily tasks with ease. 

Maintain Spinal Alignment 

The spine is a vital structure that protects the spinal cord. Poor posture puts stress on the back, impacting the joints (vertebra) that make up the spine. When these vertebrae are not in their normal position, stress is placed on the body’s nervous system, which will alter normal function and lead to an array of problems.  The chiropractors at Lake Mary Chiropractic Center use Chiropractic Biophysics (CBP) technique to identify and correct abnormal posture and spinal alignment. A variety of modalities including corrective exercise, postural adjustments and special traction are utilized to bring the spine back to its normal position.  The changes can be visualized using pre and post x-rays!

These are just four of many benefits that proper posture plays in our lives. If you feel that poor posture is having an impact on your body, take steps to correct it. Scheduling a chiropractic adjustment, strength training, and staying mindful of your stance are great options for helping posture. Lake Mary Chiropractic Center is passionate about sustaining the health of our clients, and that includes focusing on improving posture. Contact our office to schedule an appointment to meet with a member of our team.