Often overlooked and underrated, good posture plays a vital role in leading a healthy life. By understanding the common causes of poor posture, you can take proactive measures to rectify and prevent the problem. Dr Timothy Ehn will discuss the triggers that often contribute to an unhealthy body alignment.
Sedentary Lifestyle
The increasingly sedentary way of life is one of the major factors leading to poor posture. Lengthy sitting hours at work, combined with minimal physical activity, weaken and strain the postural muscles, making it more challenging to maintain correct body alignment.
Office Ergonomics
A poorly designed workstation can force you into a posture that puts undue strain on your body. Dr Timothy Ehn An unergonomic chair, a desk of improper height, or a computer screen that’s too low or high can create a sustained adverse impact on your posture.
Excessive Use Of Smartphones And Tablets
Digital devices, such as smartphones and tablets, have led to the rising phenomena of “text neck” and “iHunch.” Constantly looking down at a screen can lead to a penchant for slouching and, ultimately, impact your posture negatively.
Muscle Imbalances And Weakness
Sitting for extended periods, injuries, or certain exercises can lead to muscle imbalances, where some muscles become tight and overactive, while others are weak and underused. This imbalance affects the body’s ability to maintain proper alignment.
Muscle Tightness and Inflexibility
In certain cases, muscle tightness and inflexibility can lead to poor posture. When muscles lose their flexibility, they pull and restrict your range of motion, forcing you into unnatural positions that can cause discomfort and postural issues over time.
Poor Shoes and Footwear
The type of footwear you choose can impact your posture. Poorly fitting or inadequate support shoes, such as high heels or overly flat soles, can negatively affect your alignment, leading to poor posture and discomfort.
Psychological Factors
Lastly, Dr Timothy Ehn your mental well-being can influence posture. Stress, depression, or anxiety may manifest in your body language, leading to slumped shoulders, drooping head, or hunched back. Over time, these positions can become habitual, affecting posture long term.