3 Surprising Effects Posture Has on Your Body
Most of us associate more posture with back and neck pain, but did you know that your posture affects every system in your body? The way your body carries itself requires bones, muscles, tissue, joints, and neurons to all work together, and this synergy contributes to the overall wellness of your body. Years of bad posture can cause irreversible damage to your heart, lungs, and digestive system.
The Effect on Your Heart
Poor posture can contribute heart problems, leading to both high blood pressure and chest pain. When the body is positioned in a rounded forward way, the chest muscles begin to contract. This traps the nerves in the neck, which control breathing, heart rate, and blood pressure. If this area remains tightened for too long, it can cause permanent disruption to a normal, healthy system.
The Effect on Your Lungs
Slouching with rounded shoulders misaligns the spine and restricts the ability of the lungs to expand. Up to 30 percent of your lung capacity can be compromised, keeping the respiratory system from functioning properly. This lack of space in the lungs prevents the body from supplying oxygen to the body’s cells and can lead to asthma, blood vessel problems, and decreased endorphin production.
The Effect on Your Digestive System
Over time, improper posture may result in compressed organs inside the abdomen. This interferes with the function of the gastrointestinal apparatus and has been associated with digestive problems like acid reflux, constipation, and hernias. Your large intestines can be particularly affected. When intestines are compressed, it can affect the muscles that control the digestive system, causing a loss of good bowel peristaltic function.
Taking care of your spine and ensuring good posture can help you care for your entire body. The systems that control all of your body’s necessary functions can be damaged by excessive slouching. However, visiting a chiropractor regularly can help you keep your spine properly aligned. Remember, good posture contributes to good health!
Our chiropractic team of wellness doctors, Vasili Gatsinaris, DC, QME, James Kim, DC, Adam Abulghualya, DC, BS, ART and Caprice Leonard, MA, ATC specialize in chiropractic and wellness care. Our Irvine chiropractic office is located near John Wayne Airport, convenient for people living in Newport Beach, Costa Mesa, Tustin, Santa Ana and other surrounding Orange County communities.
Let our Orange County chiropractic team make a plan and treat your injury so that you are not restricted from your active lifestyle. To learn more about our variety of services or to schedule an appointment, take advantage of our Facebook new patient special and contact us or call 949-263-9003 today.