Disempowered by Your Posture: Understanding Pain and Postural Types

Here’s a thoughtful piece from Lauren Dobson, Remedial Massage Therapist and Sports Therapist, designed to inspire reflection and get you thinking...

Disempowered by Your Posture: Understanding Pain and Postural Types

In the world of health and wellness, posture often takes centre stage, especially when it comes to discussions about pain. For many years, we’ve been told that poor posture is the root cause of discomfort, leading to a sense of disempowerment for those who struggle with it. But what if I told you that the relationship between posture and pain isn’t as straightforward as we’ve been led to believe?

The Myths Around Posture and Pain

It’s easy to understand why bad posture has been labeled as a major culprit for pain. We often see it represented in media or on our social media accounts, and the advice to “sit up straight” or “keep your shoulders back” is common. However, research suggests that while certain postural types can indeed contribute to discomfort, they don’t necessarily cause pain in and of themselves.

For many individuals, pain is influenced by a complex number of factors, including movement patterns, muscle imbalances, psychological aspects and lots more. Just because someone has a particular posture doesn’t mean they will experience pain, and conversely, someone with “perfect” posture can still suffer from discomfort.

Understanding Postural Types

While posture alone may not equate to pain, it’s important to recognise that certain postural types can be associated with specific discomforts. For example:

• Forward Head Posture: Often seen in individuals who spend long hours looking at screens, this posture can lead to neck strain and tension headaches.

• Rounded Shoulders: Common in those with sedentary lifestyles, rounded shoulders can result in tightness in the upper back and discomfort in the shoulders.

• Lumbar Lordosis (Swayback): This posture may lead to lower back pain due to excessive curvature in the lumbar spine.

If you identify with one of these postural types, addressing it can certainly help improve your comfort and overall movement patterns. However, it’s crucial to approach posture with a balanced perspective.

Reframing the Narrative

Rather than feeling disempowered by your posture, I encourage you to reframe the narrative. Instead of viewing posture as a villain, think of it as a part of a larger system of movement and function. Here are a few points to consider:

1. Posture is Dynamic: Your posture can change based on your activities, mood, and environment. It’s not a fixed state but a dynamic one that can be improved through awareness and practice.

2. Pain is Multifactorial: Remember that pain can arise from various sources, including muscle tension, stress, injury, and even lifestyle factors. Posture is just one piece of the puzzle.

3. Empower Yourself Through Awareness: Pay attention to how your body feels in different positions. Being mindful of your posture can help you make small adjustments that lead to greater comfort.

4. Focus on Movement: Instead of solely concentrating on static posture, prioritise functional movement. Engaging in regular exercise, stretching, and strength training can improve your body’s overall function and resilience.

Taking Action

If you’re experiencing discomfort and are concerned about your posture, I recommend seeking a thorough assessment from a qualified professional. Together, we can develop a tailored plan that addresses your specific needs, whether that involves improving postural alignment, enhancing movement patterns, or addressing any muscle imbalances.

Thank you for reading!

In conclusion, while certain postural types can be linked to discomfort, they do not solely determine pain. Embrace your body’s dynamic nature, focus on movement, and empower yourself to seek the support you need. Let’s work together to enhance your comfort and well-being, free from the constraints of outdated beliefs about posture.

If you have any questions or would like to discuss your pain further, please feel free to reach out.

Your journey towards understanding your body starts here!