WHY IS POOR POSTURE A PAIN IN THE NECK?

Poor posture is something we see a lot here at the practice. Especially poor posture causing neck and shoulder pain.

The slumped posture with rounded shoulders and chin jutting forward puts huge physical stress on all the structures surrounding the neck. Including the muscles, tendons, ligaments, discs and the nervous system.

This kind of posture can also cause changes in the curve of the neck from a healthy “C” shape to a straight one. Loading the joints and discs, creating compressive forces making you more prone to spinal dysfunction and degeneration.

Due to a loss of the cervical “C”, muscles have to work harder. They become tense to help support the spine and make up for the loss of cervical curve. It becomes a vicious cycle.

The curves of the spine are there to allow the spine to be flexible and strong. To help absorb the forces. 

Muscles that commonly become tight are the upper trapezius. Contributing to muscle tension, neck and shoulder pain and even headaches.