Postural pain, also known as back pain, can be debilitating and stop you from living your life to the fullest. In fact, it’s estimated that 80% of people will experience some form of back pain in their lifetime! One of the most common causes of this type of discomfort are bad habits such as prolonged sitting and more. To reduce your chances of developing back pain, a physio North Sydney explains the five common reasons why you’re getting postural pain!
Photo created by yanalya – www.freepik.com
Stress:
It’s no secret that stress affects our bodies in a variety of ways, but most don’t realise how it can also cause postural pain. If you feel pain in your upper back or neck, stress could be a major reason why. It causes our muscles to tense up more frequently than usual which can cause strain and tension on our body. According to a physio North Sydney, when we are stressed out, we tend to hold our breath for long periods of time which only adds to tightness in these areas.
Sitting all day:
If you sit in a chair all day, like most of us do, it can contribute to postural pain. Make sure you take breaks from sitting and stretch. Another option is to consider standing at your desk, but you’ll need an adjustable-height desk for that. A standing desk helps to keep your muscles engaged and burning energy so that they don’t stiffen up while you’re at work!
Bad Sleeping Position:
Your posture while sleeping is just as important as your posture when you’re awake. A North Sydney chiropractor suggests sleeping on a firm mattress, and make sure your head, neck, and shoulders are all aligned properly. If you find yourself waking up with pain in your neck or back, it might be time for a new mattress!
Slouching:
One of the most common reasons for postural pain is sitting at a desk and slouching. Good posture is key to not only looking better, but feeling good too. Make sure you have good posture as much as possible by making sure you keep your back straight, head up and shoulders pulled back. Slouching causes stress on your muscles and can lead to tension headaches or pain in other parts of your body.
Decreased Fitness:
Another common reason is simply poor physical fitness. As we age, our bodies change (some more dramatically than others), and with that comes added risk of injury and pain. And even if you’re younger but not in great shape, staying active will help ensure your back stays strong for years to come.
Postural pain can sometimes be difficult to understand because its causes are sometimes unexpected. It can be frustrating to deal with day in and day out. Consult with a qualified expert offering North Sydney physiotherapy for assistance.
