Many people wrongly think that slouching or poor posture merely changes physical appearance. That belief, however, is misguided. Neck pain, back pain, and chronic headaches can all arise from continual misalignment of the spine. Posture essentially orients the spine incorrectly, according to Dr. Richard Arrandt (1) The unhealthy shape that results makes it difficult for body systems to communicate effectively, resulting in further health issues.
Long-term pain relief for the neck, shoulders, and back can be best achieved with the help of a licensed physician or medical team at a pain management center. However, retraining the body through improved posture can also help to alleviate symptoms. Let’s take a look at two common problems associated with slouching, the rounded shoulders and forward head, with analysis courtesy of health.india.com (2). Finally we will briefly look at a solution for back pain Atlanta residents have available.
Rounded Shoulders
Typically the shoulders can become rounded from typing for extended periods of time. Back, shoulder, and neck pain frequently results from this misaligned posture. The reason for the pain is an unnatural tightening of the chest muscles. The bones of the shoulders rotate, and the musculature at the top of the back loses strength. Impingement of the spine can result, causing the neural issues described above.
To realign the body into the correct position, stand within a doorway, and stretch your arms against either side. Your elbows should be bent upward at right angles. Push forward through the doorway and hold for 30 seconds at a time. Repeat 3 times per side. Pain relief may not be felt immediately but should gradually accrue over time.
Forward Head
Another poor postural issue frequently seen by pain management professionals is the forward head (with the head pushed in front of the shoulders). Similarly to the issue of rounded shoulders, the forward head often results from an office environment. Neck pain results from this poor posture. The muscles that run through the back of the neck and the top part of the back become tight, making motion more difficult.
To solve the forward head issue, drop your head downward toward your neck. Hold it for 5 seconds. Do 10 reps of this stretch each time your perform it. In both cases, these stretches can be completed throughout the day as needed.
Continuing Professional Solutions
Stretches can be helpful to alleviate short-term and acute pain. They can also gradually readjust the body so that pain does not increase in severity. Nonetheless, to increase the speed and effectiveness of recovery from muscular and spinal pain issues in the back and neck, it’s always best to seek medical help. For a free consultation with the area’s multi-disciplinary back pain experts, Atlanta residents can call the Atlanta Medical Clinic now.
Sources:
(1) http://www.lhj.com/health/pain-management/back-pain/7-myths-about-bad-posture-dispelled/.
(2) http://health.india.com/diseases-conditions/top-5-bad-postures-that-can-affect-your-health/