As many as 90% of patients with chronic pain problems present with less than ideal posture. Forward head posture is the most common postural problem and is frequently seen in persons suffering from migraine and tension-type headaches, but also in people who are working on computers all day, or those who regularly play musical instruments. For many, daily life involves being in the same posture for hours on end. Bethesda Physiocare® helps patients address those issues with hands-on training.
Posture should never be “rigid.” In fact, it’s ever-changing! At Bethesda Physiocare®, we believe that posture is always the beginning of the next movement! We can help figure out how to get you to move better so your posture can be the best it can be.
The Way Posture Affects Our Mobility
Posture involves much more than just the position of the head and is an indication of the overall balance of the body. Forward head posture is associated with a changed position of the jaw, rounded shoulders, internal rotation of the arms, an increased curvature of the spine (increased kyphosis and lordosis), and an overall slouched appearance. This can, in turn, start affecting nearby structures causing shoulder pain, elbow pain, and wrist pain. Not only does poor posture limit people in their movements, recreational activities, and work but it is also often characterized by pain.
Of course, posture is also a reflection of how someone feels at that time. The posture of someone who just passed a difficult exam is different from the posture of someone who recently lost a loved one. Stress at work or at home is another common cause of poor posture.
How Our Therapists Treat Posture
The physical therapists at Bethesda Physiocare® evaluate how patients maintain their posture while sitting, standing, and during functional activities. This may include an ergonomic assessment of the workplace due to how common developing a work-related injury is. With our help, patients will learn how to maintain optimal postures throughout the day. Part of posture training includes core stabilization exercises, awareness training (proprioception) and modification of the workplace.
For more information about posture training, please do not hesitate to contact us.
