Posture is a window into the spine!
Many of us are aware of poor postural patterns we can develop, like a head forward posture and slumping through upper back, which can result form:
- Too much time on screens (phones, laptops etc)
- Work (slumped over desks, work benches etc)
- Driving for long periods
- Studying (slumped over a desk)
We are also often aware of the abnormal stress these postures places on our spines!
Over time, these patters of poor posture can deteriorate our structural health (the health of our spine) leading to:
- Spinal dysfunction
- Increased spinal ageing (spinal arthritis)
- Patterns of pain (back and neck pain, shoulder pain and headaches).
New research has shown the profound effect that a failure of normal posture leading into older age, can have on our quality of life (1).
This new research looked at the link between increased rounding/slumping of the thoracic spine (mid back) and loss of independence in people over 65.
They found that an increased rounding, and stooped posture (increase thoracic kyphosis) impacts:
- Physical function
- Pain
- Pulmonary function
- Acid reflux
- Falls rick is
And is associated with a loss of independence.
An increased thoracic kyphosis develops over time (quite often years to decades before the age of 65) due to a failure of the posture maintenance mechanisms.
This happens when past and present postural and physical stress on the spine, outweighs the bodies ability to offset them.
So what can we do to help keep our spines balanced and healthy?
- Build and maintain strength through your back muscles
- Keep your spine performing well and prevent dysfunction – Chiropractic adjustments help you achieve this!
- Build and maintain strength through your back muscles
- Address structural shifts in the spine causing poor postural outcomes.
Level Spine Chiropractic Newcastle is the only Chiropractor in Newcastle to offer Chiropractic BioPhysics (CBP) to help correct these underlying spinal problems. CBP is the most researched, non surgical approach to long term postural correction and spinal re-balancing. You can learn more about CBP by clicking HERE.
If you have any questions related to posture or spinal health our Chiropractor Sasha is more than happy to answer them in person or you can email us.
If you would like to book an initial assessment with us, you can do so by clicking HERE.
You can find our Chiropractor in Mayfield, Newcastle at Level Spine Chiropractic Newcastle.
(1) Hijikata Y, et al. BMJ Open 2022;12:e052421. doi:10.1136/bmjopen-2021-052421