Good posture doesn’t only look more attractive, but it is also good for your health. Poor posture is responsible for a number of common health complaints, including lower back pain and muscle and joint stiffness. By improving posture, many of these symptoms subside, allowing for greater flexibility, less pain and an improved range of motion in the neck, shoulders and hips.

Changing posture doesn’t occur overnight, as it is the result of years of slouching slumping — often at a desk while at work or in school. Instead, improving posture requires discipline and a dedicated effort to strengthen the core abdominal muscles and pursue health alignment in the spine.

You must first identify your ideal posture, making a point to sit or stand up straight when you may otherwise naturally slouch. Retrain your muscles to support you even when it is uncomfortable or feels unnatural. Over time, you will begin to feel less lower back pain and stiffness and may experience the benefits of improved spine health, such as greater energy, less fatigue and fewer headaches and muscle aches.

Optimal Health Starts with Good Posture and Exercise

Posture exercises are a foundation of holistic health and have been used for years to improve the body’s musculoskeletal strength and alignment. Some of the ways you can improve your alignment is by practicing exercises that target the obliques, upper abdominals and transverse abs. Pilates and yoga are excellent for the spine and core muscles, as are plank exercises.

Here at Cornerstone Chiropractic, we also believe that chiropractic is an essential tool for developing good posture. We emphasize holistic health and a natural approach to wellness. Many of our patients visit us for regular spinal adjustments that help correct years of bad posture and encourage optimal health for the future.

How would you rate your posture?