While you read this, consider your posture. Are you slouched over? Is your spine curved as opposed to straight? I’m sure throughout your life you were told time and time again to maintain a good posture, but you probably didn’t think about the health implications of a bad posture.
Sure, being hunched over doesn’t look visually appealing, but not staying upright can affect your health. Here are some of those health complications that can arise because of poor posture.
How Poor Posture Affects Your Health
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Breathing: When you’re hunched over, it’s more difficult for you to take in deep breaths. One study found that poor posture impacts breathing by 30 percent. Oxygen is essential for good health and if you aren’t getting enough of it, then you can see a decline in energy levels, brain function, concentration, and recall. Being in a compressed position compromises the function of the diaphragm and decreases space for the lungs.
Digestion: Your digestive system requires blood circulation to properly break down food. When we slouch, it inhibits the flow of blood, so your digestive system doesn’t get enough to do its job. This makes it sluggish. Furthermore, your digestive system uses squeezing and pushing movements to move food along, but this can be difficult if you are crouched over because it compresses these organs.
Injury prevention: When you don’t perform a movement correctly, it can result in injury. For example, if you are moving furniture, there is a high possibility of pulling your back if you’re not in the right posture. Ensure you’re always using proper technique to perform more strenuous activities to reduce the risk of injury.
Longevity: Poor posture can contribute to inflammation, pain, and possible osteoporosis of the spine. Some studies have suggested that poor posture among seniors increases the risk of death by 44 percent because it impedes on lung and heart function.
As you can tell, the way you carry yourself physically can go a long way in impacting your overall health. Be more mindful of how you’re standing or sitting, and ensure you’re not putting added stress on your spine or other internal organs.
Also read: Simple Steps to Protect Your Bones
Emily Lunardo studied medical sociology at York University with a strong focus on the social determinants of health and mental illness. She is a registered Zumba instructor, as well as a Canfit Pro trainer, who teaches fitness classes on a weekly basis. Emily practices healthy habits in her own life as well as helps others with their own personal health goals. Emily joined Bel Marra Health as a health writer in 2013.
