By Dr Ben Appleyard (Chiropractor)
Poor posture, such as forward head posture, rounded shoulders, or an exaggerated upper back curve, is often brushed off as a habit or an appearance issue. In reality, posture can influence how the body handles everyday demands like desk work, driving, lifting kids, and exercise.
How Poor Posture Can Affect Day-to-Day Comfort
- Neck and upper back strain: When the head sits forward of the shoulders, the neck and upper back muscles often have to work harder. Over time, this can contribute to fatigue, stiffness, and a feeling of tightness around the neck, shoulders, and upper back.
- Reduced mobility and movement quality: A rounded upper back can limit how easily the shoulders, ribs, and upper spine move. Some people notice this during reaching, lifting, overhead work, or exercise. Movement may feel restricted or less coordinated.
- Breathing pattern changes: Slouched sitting can reduce the natural expansion of the rib cage. When that happens, breathing may become more shallow and the body may rely more on muscles around the neck and shoulders, which can add to tension in those areas.
- Balance and confidence with movement: Posture can influence how your body positions itself during walking and changing direction. If you already feel unsteady, or you have noticed reduced confidence on stairs or uneven ground, posture is one factor worth exploring alongside strength, vision, footwear, and general health.
- Everyday resilience: Posture is often a snapshot of how the body is coping. If you’re spending long hours sitting, managing stress, or not moving as much as you would like, posture can be one of the first places that strain shows up.
Why Posture Deserves Attention
Improving posture does not mean forcing yourself to stand perfectly straight. The goal is usually more practical than that. It’s about building habits and movement capacity that help you feel more comfortable and capable.
Small changes can make a difference, especially when they are consistent. Think better desk setup, more movement breaks, and targeted mobility and strength work.
How Chiropractic Care May Support Posture
Chiropractic care focuses on joint function, mobility, and movement patterns. For some people, care may help by reducing mechanical strain, easing areas of tightness, and improving how the spine and surrounding muscles are working together.
Posture support is often most helpful when it’s paired with simple, realistic guidance you can use at home and at work. Everyone is different, and the most appropriate approach depends on your health history and what is contributing to your discomfort.
If you have pain that is severe, persistent, or worsening, or if you have symptoms like numbness, tingling, weakness, dizziness, or unexplained weight loss, it’s important to speak with your GP or another appropriate health practitioner.
Next Steps
If you are dealing with postural fatigue, neck or upper back discomfort, or you simply want to move with more ease, our team at Family Chiropractic Bundaberg can help you understand what may be contributing and what options may suit you.