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5 Spine Bending Points on Posture!

  1. Certain Postures May have the Potential to Cause Pain: Specifically when talking about lower back pain, this idea comes from the depth of your lower back curve, or lordosis. This is in theory due to there being a higher percentage of pain receptors in the back part of the spine, which are exposed to more pressure with a deeper lordosis.
  2. However This is Probably too Simplistic!: Many studies have now shown that direct links between posture and pain aren't necessarily accurate. This is due to a few things, such as the complexity of spinal movements and the fact that your posture actually changes depending on what you're doing day to day. Some studies have even shown that how posture is measured in a clinical setting doesn't really transfer accurately to real life anyway!
  3. Think more about avoiding awkward postures than "good or bad": There have now been studies done where subjects reported their pain to have been possibly caused by an unusual or awkward posture. So things like sleeping in hotel beds or playing an instrument. These things may be the result of positioning, but could also be an issue with pain sensitivity, a bit like with chronic pain. Either way it's probably a good idea to avoid postures you feel are awkward or causing you discomfort when you can.
  4. Power Posture!: There is however some really interesting and positive links to psychology regarding different kinds of posture. Several papers have shown relationships between your beliefs, confidence and pain memories when adopting an upright, sit up straight style posture. As psychology has a big influence on pain, this may be a useful tool in coping with it. For example, modifying pain memories through the use of posture!
  5. Variation is Key!: A more useful way of thinking about posture when looking at pain may be to think in terms of movement. Some authors have shown that a lack of movement can lower the PH value of tissue making it acidic and painful as a result! Therefore what's thought of as a good posture can become a bad one quickly if you stay there too long. So in short… keep moving!

If you have questions about posture, back pain, or want advice tailored to your needs, don't hesitate to book a consultation with us.

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