Why your Stance and Posture matter

Did you know that how you stand will affect your health? Poor posture can cause neck ache, back ache, sore hips and knees. If you slouch or are constantly looking down as you walk, then your posture will be affected and the damage can be long term. It is becoming increasingly common to see people looking at mobile phones when they walk and this is affecting their posture tremendously because their upper back is rounded and their shoulders and back will become stiff.  If you stand and walk correctly then you will have less issues with your posture and your neck, shoulders, back, hips, knees and ankles will all thank you in the long term. More than that good posture makes you look more confident and engaged with your surroundings and the people in it. 

People will shuffle into my clinic with all kinds of aches and pain, because ultimately the problem ends up affecting your feet. But more than that, your posture will affect how efficiently your body works.  If you slouch and don't stand correctly it will mean that your body will use more energy.  Distribute your weight in the most optimal way and stand the right way and your body will benefit.  Your stance needs to be equal so that when viewed from the side you can draw a vertical line that passes through the ear, shoulder, hip and falls to the front of the ankle.  You will have better lung capacity, while your digestive system will work in the most optimal way.  When your centre of gravity is above your feet to keep your balance will require very little muscular energy.  Stand well, and your body will work better.

• Keeps bones and joints in the correct alignment so that muscles are being used properly.
• Helps decrease the abnormal wearing of joint surfaces that could result in arthritis.
• Decreases the stress on the ligaments holding the joints of the spine together.
• Prevents the spine from becoming fixed in abnormal positions.
• Prevents fatigue because muscles are being used more efficiently, allowing the body to use less energy.
• Prevents strain or overuse problems.
• Prevents backache and muscular pain.
• Contributes to a good appearance.