These days we live our lives through the screens on our devices with little thought about what harm it could be doing to our health. Let’s face it, if you’re reading this blog you’re probably looking at a screen right now. Whilst we aren’t totally responsible for our increased screen time there is no denying that it has many negative outcomes. For the purpose of this article I want to highlight that screen time has increased poor posture throughout the population and discuss what impact that it is having on our health. The following issues can all arise as a result of poor posture.
Stress on Muscles and Joints
Our muscles and joints generally wear the brunt of the effect when it comes to our poor posture. Our heads weighs about 4-5 kilograms and regardless of whether you are in a dynamic (moving) or static (stationary) posture your head needs support. This support is provided by the joints and musculature of the shoulders, spine, pelvis and legs. When you are positioned with your head forward and shoulders rounder the muscles of the neck and upper back must work overtime to give your head support; this can create tightness, pain and even lead to stress related injuries. Tension in the upper back and neck can commonly lead to headaches and migraines. This can be debilitating enough to put you out of work and training.
Breathing Disruptions
Have you ever tried taking a deep breath while you are slouched over your computer screen? It’s hard right? Well I guess it will be no surprise to hear that poor posture can obstruct your respiratory function and compress the lungs. This causes a lack of oxygen supply to the brain which can increase feelings of fatigue and lethargy. Try straightening up to optimise your breathing and oxygen intake.
Poor Digestion
Not only does slouching compress the lungs but it also compresses our abdominal organs and digestive tract. This decreases metabolism and hampers digestion which can lead to constipation, reflux and heartburn. Try going for a walk after you’ve had lunch so your food has time to digest before you’re back at your work desk and don’t forget to sit up straight.
Decreased Performance and Productivity
The optimal positioning of our head to our body and the ground is crucial to our balance, hearing and vision. A forward head posture means this position has been compromised. This can restrict the Cranial nerve which enables our sense of smell, proper gland function, speech, balance and aids in translating thoughts to actions. On top of this, poor posture can restrict the blood vessels that supply our body with oxygen and nutrients. Not only does this make it hard to function both generally and athletically but it can also hinder productivity. If the restriction of blood vessels is not rectified it can lead to blood clots, deep vein thrombosis and cardiovascular disease.
So maybe you’ve just checked yourself and your posture leaves a lot to be desired. Don’t stress there are plenty of things you can do to alleviate this problem. First things first, you need to take time to disconnect from your devices and reconnect with yourself. Body awareness is important, remember to check the position of your head, neck and shoulders often and make it a habit to get up from your desk and move around at regular intervals throughout the day. Exercise is a great way to combat the onset and effects of bad posture so be sure to add some exercises that strengthen the muscles of the upper back and shoulders (ie. seated rows) to your regular training routine. This strength work combined with stretching for your chest, back, shoulders and neck will help to correct your posture problems. These simple steps will allow you to revamp your posture and your health.
xx Tara
Have you checked your posture lately? Let me know how you rate your own posture in the comments section below.
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