
Often the pain we experience in everyday life can be traced back to our posture.
Our bodies are made up of four natural and protective spinal curves; these are the cervical, thoracic, lumbar and sacral curves.
The curves are protective and develop to balance the load through the spine and allow shock absorption. Unfortunately in today's society many of the tasks we complete each day tend to create postural decompensation. Over time, poor ergonomics during desk work, driving, cleaning, cooking etc. can cause changes in the natural spinal curves. These changes then alter the load through the spine and can create compression of joints, discs, nerves and blood vessels which can lead to pain.
Maintaining good desk ergonomics and being mindful of posture when completing other activities of daily living as well as performing simple stretching and strengthening exercises can help correct spinal alignment and reduce pain. There are many exercises that can be performed at the desk and/or at home which can help postural alignment. The good news is these exercises don't take a long time to complete and are effective for both current pain relief and future pain prevention.
Combining osteopathic treatment to reduce soft tissue tension and help improve joint range of motion as well and completing specific postural exercises at home can help get your body back on the right path.