In osteopathy clinics up and down the country, posture is a major talking point. For many of us, it's the first change made after non-specific low back pain strikes. When looking for an explanation, we turn to our habits. Have we been sitting correctly? Should we try harder to avoid slouching at work? Does 'bad' posture cause pain?
The truth is musculoskeletal health is rarely so simple. In this 'quick dive' blog, osteopath Simon Bell explains why the science on healthy posture has changed.
1. The Case Against Spinal Curvature
The theory that prolonged curvature of the spine (or 'bad' posture) causes low back pain originates from our knowledge of its physiology. The most prominent curve (lordosis) occurs at the bottom of the spine where the mass of pain receptors is densest. It's possible that, as the spine settles into a deep curve, pressure is exerted on these pain receptors and this causes discomfort.
2. Why Science Says It's Not So Simple
As is often the case with musculoskeletal science, there are other conflicting theories. Increasingly, studies are suggesting it's not what we do with our spines that causes chronic pain but how frequently and consistently we do it. Posture is a good example. If these new theories are accurate, the real danger may be inactivity. The spine can possibly tolerate a curve, but it is not designed to remain static (at a desk, on the sofa, etc) for long periods.
3. Keep Moving to Stay Pain Free
If you're wondering why all roads keep leading to physical activity, remember movement is key to life. All living things move. Our organs and physiological systems move constantly. When we stay still for long periods, everything from circulation to digestion, blood sugar absorption and even cognitive performance slows. Thus, some studies suggest there's no such thing as 'bad' posture; any posture can cause pain or problems within the body if sustained for long enough.
If you'd like advice on improving your spinal health, complete a FREE back health assessment and find out if your symptoms require further testing.
4. When Posture Pain Is a Short Term Problem
We've discussed the fact pain and damage are not the same thing in previous blogs. Lifting with a curved back, sitting awkwardly, repetitive manual routines: they can all cause low back pain. However, evidence suggests this pain is rarely linked to tissue damage and, due to complex cognitive responses, may be overestimated by our bodies. So, while awkward posture - craning the neck at a computer, sleeping uncomfortably, etc - lead to pain, it doesn't mean poor posture is damaging to the spine.
In the same way you can avoid painful feet by wearing good shoes, you can live more comfortably by avoiding awkward postures. But don't forget, a 'good' posture can become a bad one if you stay immobile for too long. Stay active. Keep moving.