Good posture is about more than the way a person looks. Sure, we all know we shouldn't slouch or strut because both of these postures can give a certain unwanted impression to the world. However, putting appearances aside for the moment, it is also important to consider the effects of poor posture on the health of the body.
Postural Muscles
Postural muscles are the gravity-resisting muscles that we use all day to do the things we probably don't even bother thinking about. Things like walking, breathing, and remaining upright are the domain of the body's postural muscles. These muscles are what enable us to maintain the posture that makes us bipedal. In simpler terms, postural muscles are what keeps us upright. Some examples of the body's postural muscles include:
- Pectoral Muscles
- Masseter
- Lumbar Spine
- Hamstrings
Postural muscles can shorten over time if they are not used properly by the body. In other words, poor posture can wreck the body's posture-maintaining mechanism. Damaged or abused postural muscles can result in musculo-skeletal imbalance or joint instability. Misalignment due to poor posture can result in joint damage as well as annoying aches and pains.
Practice Good Posture
The benefits of practicing good posture are numerous. Maintaining good posture ensures even pressure along the spine and reduces physical stress on the body. When the body is routinely held in the proper upright position, this lessens neck and back pain. Even headaches can be eliminated with good posture. Good posture makes sitting more comfortable and it can even enhance the body's oxygen intake.
Think about it, if you sit slouched at your desk or in front of the TV all day with your shoulders and neck hunched over, this will prevent your lungs from working at their full capacity. It will also place unnecessary pressure on your neck, shoulders, back, and spine, which will eventually lead to all manner of aches and pains.
Posture Aids
In some cases, however, pain or illness can make it difficult to maintain proper posture. In these cases, it is certainly acceptable to give your posture a boost. The Medical Maven offers a
Deluxe Criss Cross Back Support with compression straps to help you maintain healthy posture. Custom designed to promote good posture and provide comfortable back support, this sleek support garment is an excellent option to help your body's postural muscles do the job they were designed for. Available in black and white and in sizes ranging from Small to XX Large, this comfortable support garment features adjustable side panels to ensure a proper fit and adequate support, while the soft, lightweight elastic construction means you won't even notice you're wearing it.
Statement: Good posture can reduce joint stress, lessen neck and back pain, and even prevent headaches.
