The following is an excerpt from "A Natural Method of Health Care - Introduction to Chiropractic" 10th edition. This important reference, a $12.95 value, is given to all new patients. If you would like a copy please contact our office, the Florida Chiropractic Association or you may order from Amazon.com.

Posture And Your Health

The spine is not an inflexible rod as some people would believe. In fact, it is quite flexible. Structurally strong, it allows the agile movement of the human body. It not only supports the body and all its organs, it also protects the sensitive and delicate spinal cord and spinal nerves. Every activity, even breathing, demands movement of the spine, ribs and attachments. The spine gives the human structure both strength and agility.

Humans are one of a small group of beings who are classified as "biped" (stand erect on two legs). While this particular position gives humans the advantages of agility, leverage and mobility, it also creates certain structural stresses. The body must adapt to the continual stress of gravity in order to maintain It's balance.

The most obvious benefit of good posture is efficiency and comfort. Yet, because of the interrelationship of the structural (bone) and functional (organ) systems of the body, posture is also a factor which can impact health. For example, poor posture compromises the movements of the rib cage and does not allow the lungs to function at maximum efficiency in order to bring much needed oxygen to the tissue and eliminate carbon dioxide wastes. Other vital organs of the body are also restricted when body posture is improper, producing structural stress.

Your doctor of chiropractic is a specialist in body mechanics, and places considerable emphasis on the body's structural, muscular, and neurological components. Additionally, the holistic (wellness) approach of chiropractic care includes training in nutrition, disease prevention, life-style intervention, and the psychological aspects that play a vital role in health. Because there is considerable emphasis on the structural, muscular and neurological aspects and how they relate to health, the focus is aimed at maintaining sound body mechanics and good posture.

The Importance Of Posture To Physical Development

While people with good posture stand straighter and look better, there are advantages to correct posture that go beyond appearance. The human body, like a machine, to function properly is dependent on balance, rhythm, timing and coordinated action of all its components. Correct posture enables the body to function more efficiently.

Can Posture Affect Mental Attitude?

Posture affects how others see you and as you see yourself. It reflects your personality, your confidence, your attitude, your ability...and your health.

There is an interrelationship between how you stand, sit and walk, and how you feel. More than anything else, it is a tip-off to others as to whether you are a positive person or a negative person, a strong person or a weak person, a healthy person or an ill person.

Many Postural Faults Can Be Helped

The effects of poor posture can be serious in terms of health, comfort and efficiency, causing fatigue. Many problems can be helped. If you or a member of your family have what appears to be a postural problem, you should seek the advice of a doctor of chiropractic. Unless there is an anatomical (structural deformity) or pathological (disease-caused) disturbance, the chances for correction are excellent.

If not corrected, poor posture can affect the health and well-being of the individual throughout his or her life. Poor posture contributes to shallow breathing, a cramped chest cavity, faulty digestion, poor elimination; and poor circulation, each of which affects not only the functions of individual organs, but also the system. It will also contribute to the accelerated degeneration of spinal and other joints and discs. Lack of energy and reduced coordination are just two of many symptoms of a body that is not functioning efficiently.

Check Your Posture

Poor posture may be caused by scoliosis which is a lateral or side-bending of the spine. This condition often becomes pronounced and creates a mechanical disadvantage to the spine and supporting structures. Many cases of scoliosis are detected through junior and high school spinal screening examinations. Your doctor of chiropractic should be consulted if there is any indication that a scoliosis may be present. Many cases of scoliosis can be helped with conservative measures such as spinal adjustments and rehabilitative exercises. If further evaluation is warranted, your doctor of chiropractic will refer you to the appropriate facility.

There are numerous tests for evaluating your posture, many of which require precise instruments and expert evaluation. However, you may want to give yourself a preliminary self -test.

Test #1. Stand with your back to the wall. Place your head, shoulder blades, calves and heels against the wall. Place your hands at your sides. Flatten the hollow of your back by pressing the buttocks back against the wall. If the space at the back of your waist is greater than the thickness of your hand, your posture may not be properly aligned.

Test #2. Face a full-length mirror and view your shoulders and hips. These areas should be level. If one shoulder is higher or one hip is lower, there is an imbalance in your posture which should be checked professionally.

Test #3. Face a mirror. Close your eyes. Turn your head (face) to the right and left and then come to rest straight ahead. Open your eyes. If you are facing straight ahead, fine; if not, you may have a postural problem.

Test #4. Face a mirror. Close your eyes. Tip your head toward your right shoulder as far as you comfortably can and hold for 5 seconds, then tip your head to your left shoulder and hold for 5 seconds. Return your head to where you believe is the midline, upright position. Open your eyes. If your head is exactly upright, fine. However, if your head is tipped slightly to the left or right you may have a postural problem.

If a postural problem is apparent as a result of the self-test, it would be wise to discuss it with your doctor of chiropractic. He or she will determine if there is a health or development problem and provide appropriate advice

What Causes Poor Posture?

There are many reasons for poor posture, the most serious of which is a birth defect. In most cases, a combination of factors causes poor posture. Some of the more obvious are:

1. Visual problems.
2. Emotional problems.
3. Excessive weight.
4. Foot problems or improper shoes.
5. Weak muscles, muscle imbalance.
6. Improper nutrition.
7. Poor sleep support (mattress).
8. Injury to muscles, ligaments, tendons or bones.
9. Negative mental and physical attitudes.
10. Occupational stress.

What Are Some Benefits Of Correct Posture?

1. Improves your health.
2. Improves your appearance.
3. Improves your coordination.
4. Increases your strength.
5. Gives you more stamina.
6. Makes your clothing fit better.
7. Gives you confidence.
8. Gives you better body balance and makes you more agile.
9. Reduces the possibility of injury.
10. Aids in physical and mental development.

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