Maintaining Good Posture
Maintaining Good Posture
Good posture is necessary for good health and is broadcast frequently. Poor posture can easily be recognised when seen. It is formed as a result of bad habits or underlying conditions which have been carried over the years and from events that occur through your lives. The importance for the necessity of good posture is often misunderstood by many.
Good posture, what is?
Posture is the position in which we hold our bodies while standing, sitting, or lying down. Good posture is when the alignment of body parts are correct and supported by the right amount of muscle tension against gravity. Without muscles control and posture, we would not be able stand and fall to the ground.
We do not have to consciously maintain our normal posture; our subconscious mind controls the necessary muscles for us. There are several muscle groups, which includes the hamstrings and large back muscles – trapezius, latissimus dorsi, rhomboids and levator scapulae. These are critically important in maintaining good posture. Ligaments hold the skeleton together. When the postural muscles are functioning properly they prevent the forces of gravity from pushing us over. Posture is maintained during movement by the postural muscle.
Why is good posture important?
Correctly toned aligned muscles helps us stand, walk, sit, and lie in positions that place the minimum stress on soft tissues, ligaments, muscles and tendons during movement and weight-bearing activities.
Correct posture:
• Aids bones and joints in maintaining correct alignment so that muscles function correctly.
This decreases abnormal wearing of joint surfaces result in degenerative arthritis and joint pain.
• Reduces the stress of ligaments, that holding joints together which minimises the prospect of injury.
• Allows muscles to work more efficiently, preventing muscle fatigue. This reducing the body’s need to use of excessive energy,.
• Helps prevent further muscle strain, and muscular pain.
Efficient postural muscles, flexibility and strong muscle and normal joint motion aid in maintaining proper posture. Personal postural habits at home and in the workplace and work to correct them if needed, are important and necessary.
Consequences of poor posture
Several factors contribute to poor posture. The most common are: stress, obesity, pregnancy, weak postural muscles, a poor work environment, incorrect working posture and abnormally tight muscles. These factors can decrease flexibility, affect the bodies alignment. Unhealthy sitting and standing habits and unsuitable footwear - high-heeled shoes, can contribute to poor body positioning.
Can I correct my posture?
Body posture can be corrected. Long-standing postural problems will take longer to address as the joints have adapted to long-standing poor posture habits. Corrective posture while standing, sitting, or lying down will be gradually corrected. Within time, you will move toward an improved and healthier body position.
Exercises to strengthen and improve core postural muscles are available, and can be recommended, to improve postures during your activities, helping reduce your risk of injury.
