“Posture” refers to the way that we position our bodies while sitting, standing, or walking. It is with the unconscious use of muscle tension against gravity, that we are able to keep our body parts aligned. Being out of alignment can cause stress on certain muscle groups, ligaments and joints, resulting in pain. In contrast, with good posture we can stand, walk, sit, and lie in positions that place the least amount of strain on our supporting muscles and ligaments.
What is Orthotic Care and Why Does It Matter?
Did you know that proper posture starts with our feet? Our partnership with The Orthotics Group allows us to provide high-quality, custom orthotics to supplement the chiropractic treatments given by Dr. Gilbert. With a simple electronic scan of the feet as a person is walking, Dr. Gilbert can see what areas need support so that that patient has an easier time maintaining proper posture.
Why Be Concerned With Proper Posture?
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Helps us keep bones and joints in correct alignment so that our muscles are used correctly, decreasing the abnormal wearing of joint surfaces that could result in degenerative arthritis and joint pain.
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Reduces the stress on the ligaments holding the spinal joints together, minimizing the likelihood of injury.
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Allows muscles to work more efficiently, allowing the body to use less energy and, therefore, preventing muscle fatigue.
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Helps prevent muscle strain, overuse disorders, and even back and muscular pain.
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To maintain proper posture, you need to have adequate muscle flexibility and strength, normal joint motion in the spine and other body regions, as well as efficient postural muscles that are balanced on both sides of the spine. In addition, you must recognize your postural habits at home and in the workplace and work to correct them, if necessary.
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Correct Posture
What is the relationship between orthotics and posture?
Having flat feet or low arches, legs of differing lengths, or other foot issues can make it very difficult to stand up straight and maintain proper posture. Since posture is related to pain that is felt within the musculo-skeletal system, it becomes imperative to correct the source of the problem—a person’s stance or gait. Orthotics alter the angles at which the foot strikes the ground, and when placed inside your shoes, they can absorb shock, improve balance and posture, and take pressure off sore spots.
An imbalance in your feet–even a small one can change your posture and affect your entire body. Orthotics might help you if:
– One side of the sole of your shoe wears out faster than the other. – You frequently sprain your ankle. – Your toes are not straight. – Your feet point inward or excessively outward when you walk. – You have localized foot pain – You have Bunions, hammer toes – You have Arch/heel pain – You have Leg/knee pain – You have Hip or back pain – even neck pain
Poor posture can lead to excessive strain on our postural muscles and may even cause them to relax, when held in certain positions for long periods of time. For example, you can typically see this in people who bend forward at the waist for a prolonged time in the workplace. Their postural muscles are more prone to injury and back pain.
Several factors contribute to poor posture-most commonly, stress, obesity, pregnancy, weak postural muscles, abnormally tight muscles, and high-heeled shoes. In addition, decreased flexibility, a poor work environment, incorrect working posture, and unhealthy sitting and standing habits can also contribute to poor body positioning.