Do You Need A Chiropractor To Improve Your Posture? Here's What We Know
If you've ever unexpectedly caught your reflection in the mirror or come across a candid action shot and been a bit taken aback by the less-than-aligned posture you are apparently exhibiting, you certainly aren't alone. Proper posture may come naturally to some, but for others, it takes intention and awareness to straighten the spine and stand tall throughout the day — particularly if you spend a fair chunk of time working from home at a computer or lifting heavy objects. And sometimes, there's actually a deeper cause behind ongoing slouching, like a postural imbalance (via Thrive Chiropractic).
If posture-improving tips like corrective braces, standing desks, stretching, and improved sleeping positions still aren't cutting it when it comes to maintaining better posture, visiting a chiropractor could be your golden ticket. While you might have previously only thought to schedule a chiropractor appointment for unexpected back and neck pain, using the aid for ongoing improved posture may be worth exploring.
Spinal manipulation can improve posture
If you've decided to give chiropractic care a try to improve your posture and you've found a well-trained and certified expert for the job, you'll work together to find a treatment plan that will vary in length depending on your overall health. According to Thrive Chiropractic, there are several postural issues that a chiropractor can address, including a forward head position, scoliosis, pelvis or hip un-leveling, neck curvature, kyphosis or a hunched positioning, and low or mid back pain.
Per Healthline, a 2017 study found significant postural improvement over the course of six months thanks to chiropractic care. A woman suffering from back pain due to a hunched position was able to find great ease in both pain relief and posture after working with a chiropractor. If you're sensing that some of the unexplained back and neck aches you may be experiencing are actually due to posture and misalignment, then this aid is definitely worth a shot.
Strained tissues could be a contributing issue
Chiropractors do more than just pop you back into place, they also work with the ligaments, tendons, and cartilage which can all contribute to posture. If you choose to work with a chiropractor to adjust your stance, you may find that they also suggest mild strengthening and muscle-releasing exercises in order to correct soft tissue imbalances.
Massaging soft tissue can improve circulation and reduce the back pain associated with inflammation, according to Spine-Health. Your chiropractor may also offer suggestions for certain postures and positions during specific activities — beyond simply standing up straight. Engaging core muscles, sleeping in a healthy position, limiting high heel wear, sitting tall while driving, and being mindful of your neck's position when using your phone or tablet are all part of the equation when it comes to improved posture. Some chiropractors may even have suggestions when it comes to nutritional programs, supplement use, and shoe inserts.
A chiropractor can recommend the best stretching and strengthening exercises
Stretching may seem like too simple of a solution, but there's a lot to be said for moving your body in the right ways to improve your posture. Muscle tension can be a contributor to poor posture and stretching these tight areas can make a huge difference. A chiropractor will be able to identify overactive muscles that need relief and the ones that need to be strengthened in order to improve posture. This can be easy to miss if you aren't aware of which muscles are weaker than they should be.
Toning the muscles through cardiovascular exercise — in addition to chiropractic care — can also greatly improve back pain, which could be a symptom of poor posture. Even walking around your neighborhood once a day can make a big difference. Biking, swimming, jogging, hiking — whatever it is you most enjoy when it comes to cardiovascular health could be a missing link when it comes to prolonged good posture.