Our spines are curved, and for good reason. Learn how spinal curves relate to posture and pain.
We each have natural curves in our spine: an extended curve in our neck, a flexed curve in our mid back, and another extended curve in our lower back. Effectively, these curves allow our spine to function like a spring distributing load and weight evenly throughout our bodies.
Our spinal curves naturally evolve and change as we grow and age, becoming more exaggerated over time. This process is added to by natural wear-and-tear (arthritis) and narrowing of our spinal discs with age.
However, some of us experience premature changes in our spinal curves based on our repetitive postures. These postures are often sustained at the workplace and can impact those of us who sit or stand for long periods.
Naturally, the longer we assume a certain posture the lazier we are at maintaining our spinal curves. Surrounding muscles tend to fatigue and our curves may lose their natural spring. This limits the ability of the spine to cope with loads, often leading to postural neck/back pain and headaches.
As osteopaths, we treat postural pain using hands-on techniques to restore spinal motion. We then give you postural exercises and ergonomic advice to continue the work yourselves under our guidance and care. You certainly wont be advised to stand stiff as a board all day. Spinal motion and movement is the key! See some of our excellent postural exercises below!
If you are experiencing postural pain or headaches, book online now!
