Posture Problems

Poor Posture

How do I know if there are problems with my posture?

Some postural problems are clearly evident, while others are not. This is because the body does its best to balance things out through a process known as compensation. You can use a mirror, or ask a friend to look at you as you stand up straight. When viewed from the side, do you hold your head in a forward position instead of centered above your body? When viewed from the front, is your head level, or is it tilted or shifted to one side? Is one shoulder higher than the other? Is one hip higher than the other? These are a few common signs of postural stress caused by spinal misalignment. A thorough chiropractic examination, including physical, orthopedic, neurological, and radiographic exams, must be performed in order to determine the exact nature and extent of your problem(s).

So, if problems are found, can they be corrected?

The vast majority of patients respond favorably to our treatment protocols. Initial tests will help determine not only the nature of your problem(s), but also your expected response to treatment. Generally speaking, a patient in their teens is expected to respond better and more quickly than a patient in their 70's; however, individual results vary. The goal should be to identify your problem, then to do what is necessary to correct it to the fullest extent possible in order for you to receive the maximum benefit to your health. Should initial tests indicate that you are not a good candidate for our postural correction program, you will be informed of this fact and presented with alternative treatment options.

Do all chiropractors address postural problems?
No, they don't, and among doctors who do, the protocols often vary from one practitioner to the next. This is due to differences in experience, training, and background on the part of each doctor, and is not necessarily bad. The main thing to keep in mind is that long-term postural correction cannot be achieved through standard chiropractic methods that involve adjusting the spine alone. Specially designed spinal rehabilitation exercises must be performed in a prescribed fashion and sequence, in conjunction with specific spinal adjustments, in order to achieve predictable, long-term spinal/postural corrections that can be verified and measured by comparing pre and post-treatment radiographs.

Why should I worry about my posture if I'm not in pain?

Poor posture and spinal misalignment are often present for years before ever causing any pain. Unfortunately, the longer the condition is present, the greater the chance that the muscles, ligaments, discs, and even bones, will have changed to deal with the problem. The more your spine has changed, a process known as "compensation," the more difficult it is to restore the normal spinal contours, and the longer it will take. The best approach is to make an appointment for a thorough examination, including spinal x-rays. On your follow-up visit you will receive a Report of Findings. Your problems will be explained to you and you will be given an opportunity to ask any questions you might have. Your doctor will recommend a treatment plan that will attempt to restore your spine to its optimal position. This will allow the joints to line up better, reducing stress on your discs, improving spinal function and slowing the degenerative process. Spines with normal contours age much better than spines with significant misalignments, and greatly improve your chances of living a pain-free life.

DISCLAIMER: No individuals, including those under our active care, should use the information, resources or tools contained within to self-diagnose or self-treat any health-related condition. Diagnosis and treatment of all health conditions should only be performed by your doctor of chiropractic or other licensed health care professional.

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