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Negative Effects of a Stooped Posture

A stooped posture can lead to a variety of health problems. Characteristics of a stooped posture include rounding of the upper back, caved shoulders and a tendency to lean forward while walking. Stooped posture is common among many manual workers, including those in the agricultural, construction and mining sectors. A stooped posture may also be caused by arthritis of the spine, osteoporosis or genetics.

  1. Back or Neck Pain

    • Stooped posture often leads to back and neck pain. Improper alignment of the spinal column and pelvic girdle account for approximately 80% of lower back problems in the United States, and back pain accounts for more lost work hours than any other occupational injury. Work requiring people to maintain a stooped posture is strongly associated with the very high incidence of lower back disorders. Remember to take short breaks often when working and try to maintain correct posture as much as is possible.

    Muscular Imbalances

    • As pointed out by health website Fitness Facts, when your back is misaligned, the muscles are forced to attempt to compensate for the postural deviations. This usually results in tightness, or a lack of flexibility, reduced range of motion and muscular strains. Headaches and fatigue may also develop. Flexibility and resistance training can help restore muscular balance.

    Long Term Damage

    • Maintaining a stooped posture long term has negative long term effects. Joints, discs and muscles will become increasingly damaged, while nerves and blood vessels are likely to become constricted. Breathing difficulties are a possibility and in extreme cases a stooped posture may even lead to internal organ damage. This happens if the blood supply to internal organs is restricted for long periods of time.

    Impact on Confidence

    • While it is not a physical effect, the toll a stooped posture can take on a person's confidence should not be underestimated. As pointed out by website Posture Improve, people who walk tall and sit straight subconsciously project confidence and authority, whereas those who are slumped over send out the opposite signals.

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