Posture Problems

Good posture is more than just standing tall—it’s essential for overall health, reducing strain on muscles, joints, and the spine. Unfortunately, our lifestyles today consist of long hours at desks, excessive screen time, and improper ergonomics—all of which have made poor posture a common issue. 

But is poor posture just about being “hunched over”? Or is there something more sinister lurking?

Left unchecked, bad posture can lead to chronic pain, stiffness, reduced mobility, and even long-term spinal problems. If you’re struggling with posture-related discomfort, Chiropractic care can help correct imbalances and get you back to moving with ease.

Posture assessment at MYo lab health and wellnes

Causes of Posture Problems

 

Posture problems can stem from a variety of factors, including:

 

  • Sedentary Lifestyles: Sitting for prolonged periods, especially with poor ergonomics, can cause muscle imbalances and spinal misalignment.
  • Tech Neck: Constantly looking down at screens strains the neck and upper back, leading to a forward head posture.
  • Weak Core Muscles: A strong core is essential for maintaining good posture. Weak core muscles lead to slouching and back pain.
  • Injury or Trauma: Accidents, falls, or past injuries can alter spinal alignment, making it difficult to maintain proper posture.
  • Footwear & Walking Habits: Poorly fitted shoes, high heels, and improper walking mechanics can affect spinal alignment.
  • Stress & Tension: Emotional stress can cause muscle tightness, leading to hunched shoulders and a forward head posture.
  • Structural Issues: Some individuals have spinal curvatures, such as scoliosis, which naturally affect posture and require specialized care.

How Chiropractors Treat Posture Problems

 

Chiropractic care offers a holistic and hands-on approach to correcting posture issues and relieving associated pain. Rather than just treating symptoms, we focus on addressing the root cause of poor posture by improving spinal mobility, strengthening muscles, and optimizing movement patterns. Some of our treatment options include:

 

  • Spinal Adjustments: Many posture problems arise when certain joints in the spine aren’t moving as they should. We perform spinal adjustments to restore proper alignment, reduce tension, and help your body hold a more natural posture.
  • Soft Tissue Therapy: Muscles, ligaments, and fascia all contribute to how well you hold your posture. We use soft tissue therapy, including myofascial release, massage therapy, and trigger point therapy, to help relax tight muscles, reduce stiffness, and improve flexibility, making it easier for the body to maintain proper alignment.
  • Physiotherapy: Physiotherapy techniques, such as corrective exercises, posture retraining, and mobility drills, strengthen weak muscles and improve overall movement patterns. By combining these methods with spinal adjustments, we help restore balance, reduce strain, and support long-term postural correction.
  • Postural Exercises & Stretches: Weak muscles and tight tissues can pull your body out of alignment. Our Chiropractic and Physiotherapy team provides specific exercises and stretches to strengthen the muscles that support good posture and relieve tension in overworked areas.
  • Custom Orthotics: Posture starts from the ground up, and if foot misalignment is part of the issue, we may recommend custom orthotics to provide better support and stability for your entire body. This completely depends on each individual’s diagnosis and doesn’t necessarily apply to everyone. 
  • Ergonomic Guidance: Chiropractic care goes beyond the clinic. Daily habits play a huge role in posture. And so, we guide you with practical advice on optimizing your workstation, sitting posture, and even sleeping positions. Small adjustments, like adjusting screen height or using a lumbar support pillow, can go a long way in preventing future problems.

If you’re experiencing discomfort due to poor posture, Chiropractic care can help you stand taller, move better, and feel more comfortable in your body.

Patient Success Stories/Testimonials

I’m an old active person and I had quite a few injuries along the years. I’ve seen several chiropractors and physiotherapists. The therapy worked for a while but other injuries piled up. ( Not getting younger ). I discovered “MYo Lab Health and Wellness”. 

They worked on all my problems diligently and considerate. Acupuncture, realignment, exercises and now I’m in the maintenance stage. My posture improved, running got more enjoyable, day by day dizziness diminished. 

They are friendly professionals, good professionals, I would recommend them to anyone in need.

Magdalena S.

My first time seeing a chiropractor and I have to say I was blown away by how informative and positive my experience was with Dr Shelly. I’m definitely looking forward to more appointments

Melissa R.

This new facility is simply top notch, I was very impressed on my first visit! The staff here is also very friendly and helpful with appointments and using my insurance. Evan also happens to be the best chiro I’ve seen for my sports related injuries. Only good things to say about MYo Lab!

Sean M.

Common FAQs About Poor Posture

1 What causes poor posture?

Poor posture can result from various factors, including muscle imbalances, lack of awareness, a sedentary lifestyle, poor ergonomics, stress, and injury. Posture is a habit, and so, like any habit, it can be good or bad, and it can be changed with intentional effort. And we can help you with that.

2 What are the signs of poor posture?

Signs of poor posture include rounded shoulders, a forward head position, hunched back, uneven hips, and a protruding stomach. You may notice tension in your midback, clicking in your hips or find that sitting up straight is tiring and you can’t do it for very long.

3. How can poor posture affect my health?

A lot of people aren’t aware of this, but poor posture isn’t just about slouching—it can take a toll on your body over time. When you’re constantly hunched over, your back, neck, and shoulders have to work overtime, which can lead to chronic pain and tension headaches. It can also make you feel stiff and less flexible, affecting your balance and movement. In addition, slouching can compress your lungs, making it harder to breathe deeply, and even slow down digestion, leading to issues like bloating or acid reflux. That being said, you can reverse this. With a few posture tweaks and some strengthening exercises, you can relieve pain, move better, and feel your best every day.

4. Can poor posture be corrected?

Yes, because posture is a habit, with consistent effort, poor posture can often be corrected through exercises, stretches, ergonomic adjustments, and awareness.

5. What are some tips for improving posture?

Some things you’d really have to focus on are practicing good ergonomics, strengthening core muscles, stretching regularly, being mindful of your posture, and avoiding prolonged sitting. 

Specific strengthening exercises that target the midback & glute muscles can also be helpful in maintaining better posture. Taking breaks throughout the day, standing up, and moving around are also recommended.

Take a look at our YouTube channel, where we’ve created a playlist for posture exercises:

6. What’s the best posture?

The best posture is the next posture; the human body isn’t meant to spend long periods of time in any one position. The traditional “good posture” that most people think of is healthy because it allows many muscles to relax, as your spine is stacked and your joints are supported, meaning that no one area has to do the work of resisting gravity. However, if you’re sitting all day in that posture, your hips will still be tight because your hip flexors are in a shortened position. Chiropractic care can help you achieve better posture but also help keep you moving into the next one.

7. What chair should I buy for my posture?

The best desk chairs are ones that have SI joint support that’s lower than the typical lumbar support to support your pelvis and keep your spine aligned. From there, it’s important that it sits at the right height for the desk, gives you support for your feet if necessary, and allows you to sit comfortably in an upright posture. Which exact chair that is will depend on you, your body type, and your work environment.

8. My work requires me to be in weird positions – how do I keep good posture?

If your job has you contorting into small spaces, the best thing you can do is exercise and seek routine care outside of work to increase your body’s capacity to handle that load. A strong body is resilient, and taking care of your body will help you do the things you need to do.

9. How does a Chiropractor help with posture problems?

Chiropractors can help correct posture problems by performing spinal adjustments to areas that aren’t moving well, providing exercises and stretches, and offering ergonomic advice.

10. What should I expect during a Chiropractic visit?

We start things off with an initial assessment, which may include a physical examination, posture analysis, and possibly imaging studies if indicated. Treatment may involve spinal adjustments, soft tissue therapy, and personalized recommendations for exercises and lifestyle changes.

11. How many Chiropractic sessions are needed to see improvement?

The number of sessions needed varies depending on the individual’s condition, severity of the posture problem, and response to treatment. Some people may see improvement after 3–4 sessions, while others may require more extended care. Often, the longer the condition has been an issue, the longer it will take to notice the improvement. Your improvement can be helped with adherence to the care plan and performing the recommended at-home exercises & stretches.

12. Can Chiropractic care be combined with other treatments?

Absolutely, Chiropractic care can often be combined with other treatments such as physical therapy, massage therapy, and exercise programs for a comprehensive and holistic approach to improving posture and overall health.

13. Can my Chiropractor help with posture correction for desk workers?

Absolutely! If you spend long hours sitting at a desk, it’s easy to develop poor posture, leading to neck, back, and shoulder pain. We can assess your posture, identify imbalances, and provide targeted spinal adjustments to realign your body and relieve tension. Beyond adjustments, we offer personalized ergonomic recommendations to help you. This includes advice on proper desk and chair height, monitor positioning, and best practices for sitting posture. We also prescribe corrective exercises and stretches to strengthen postural muscles, improve flexibility, and counteract the effects of prolonged sitting.

14. Will I have to keep seeing a Chiropractor for my posture?

Many people benefit from long-term routine wellness care focused on keeping their bodies moving well. This can include spinal adjustments, soft tissue therapy, and updating your rehab exercises to keep you progressing toward your goals. Posture is a habit, and regular “check ins” can be helpful reminders to keep you on track. That being said, 100% of our care plans have a defined start and end date, where we look to provide you the tools necessary to achieve your goals and succeed. We are a health & wellness clinic, so we’re here to help your wellness long-term, which is a lifelong journey!

How MYo Lab Can Help

 

If you’re dealing with pain and discomfort caused by poor posture, you can book an appointment with one of our Chiropractors. Alternatively, you can call us at (403)930-8686. We’re currently accepting new patients.