7 Surprising Facts About Posture
Posture is a frequent topic of discussion for patients, clinicians, the media, and society. A common belief is that spinal pain is caused by sitting, standing, or bending "incorrectly." Despite the absence of strong evidence to support these common beliefs, a large posture industry has flourished, with many interventions and products claiming to "correct" posture and prevent pain. Unfortunately, many health care professionals provide advice in line with this non-evidence-based perspective. Despite widespread beliefs about correct posture, there is no strong evidence that avoiding incorrect posture prevents low back pain, or that any single spinal curvature is strongly associated with pain
And despite the absence of strong evidence to support these common beliefs, a large posture industry has flourished, with many interventions and products claiming to "correct" posture and prevent pain.
D. Slater et al. published an article in August 2019: “Sit Up Straight”: Time to Re-evaluate
Journal of Orthopaedic and Sports Physical Therapy 49(8):562-564
1. There is NO single “correct” posture
Despite common posture beliefs, there is no strong evidence that one optimal posture exists or that avoiding “incorrect” postures will prevent back pain.
2. Differences in posture are a fact of life
There are natural variations in spinal curvatures and there is no single spinal curvature strongly associated with pain. Pain should not be attributed to relatively normal variations.
3. Posture reflects beliefs and mood
Posture can offer insights into a person’s emotions, thoughts and body image. Some postures are adopted as a protective strategy and may reflect concerns regarding body vulnerability. Understanding the reason behind preferred postures can be helpful.
4. It is safe to adopt more comfortable postures
Comfortable postures vary between individuals. Exploring different postures, including those frequently avoided and changing habitual postures may provide symptomatic relief.
5. The spine is robust and can be trusted
The spine is a robust, adaptable structure, capable of safely moving and loading in a variety of postures. Common warnings to protect the spine are not evidence-informed and can lead to fear.
6. Sitting is not dangerous
Sitting down for more than 30 minutes in one position is NOT dangerous. However, moving and changing positions can be helpful, and being physically active is important for your health.
7. One size does not fit all
Postural and movement screening does not prevent pain in the workplace. Preferred lifting styles are influenced by the naturally varying spinal curvatures and advice to adopt a specific posture or to brace the core is not evidence- based.
