subject: Poor Posture is Not Normal [print this page] Poor Posture is Not Normal Poor Posture is Not Normal
Although poor posture is seen everywhere, everyday, it's not normal; it would be considered common, but certainly not normal! "Changes in posture are of concern because of their association with pain or impaired physical function." This statement was made by the authors of a study published one year ago. Remember folks, the spine has a normal optimal position that best resists gravity and allows for optimal joint and nerve function. It's only when the spine begins to deviate from this normal position that destructive changes begin to accumulate. Once these changes have done enough damage, pain and disability are what you can look forward to.
"Compared to young adults, healthy older adults demonstrated a forward head posture, with increased lower cervical spine flexion and increased upper cervical extension in both positions." This positional change documented by the authors is a perfect example of the "forward head posture" commonly seen that leads to a multitude of health problems. C'mon, you know the look; the persons head sticks out in front of the rest of their body. The persons head can be seen entering the room before the rest of them. Although this may seem funny it's not, unless of course pain and disability is funny in which case I stand corrected.
Bottom line: poor posture is an example of a destructive change resulting in pain and disability. Well, unless of course the postural abnormality is identified and corrected. Considering you only get one spine, a plan must be made now to protect this structural necessity! Why? Have you considered how you'd like to function as you age? If you're like most Americans, you believe pain, disability, shrinking and such are inevitable with age. You're wrong! Be proactive! Protect your spine; maintain good posture and give your body the best chance for optimal function well into your Golden Years.
Reference:
Kuo, L. Tully, E. Galea, M. Video Analysis of Sagittal Spinal Posture in Healthy Young and Older Adults. JMPT. Volume 32, Issue 3, Pages 210-215 (March 2009).
