BENDING TOWARDS PAIN?

Did you know that your posture could be the genesis of that chest pain you are having lately?

The normal spine alignment has got three natural curves that is                                         the cervical (upper spine and neck area), thoracic (middle spine) and lumbar (lower spine). This curves make an s-shape of the spine. In slouching the cervical and the thoracic will be more affected. When slouching, you tend to move your neck and shoulders forward and with time this will lead to an increased thoracic curve which is a spine deformity called kyphosis.

As a result the chest muscles tighten while the back muscles become weak hence a caved in chest. The tight chest muscles can limit the ability of your rib cage to expand, and this can cause you to take rapid, shallow breaths since the lungs don’t inflate fully. In an upright posture, Strong back muscles help in maintaining an upright posture, which is essential for proper lung function.

During slouching, the forces of gravity pulls your neck and shoulders downwards hence inhibiting proper chest expansion. The longer you sit, the less your body is able to fight gravity. 

In the long run, your spine can end up reshaping and adapting or even make permanent changes. 

Nevertheless, if the chest pain is troubling you and is interfering with your work, you should have the cause of your chest pain investigated by a cardiologist and to ensure that you do not have any serious heart condition.

Activities that lead one to slouching.

• Using smartphones.
• Using a laptop for prolonged periods
• Driving.
• Riding.
• Sitting and standing for long hours
• Studying for many hours.

TIPS TO RELIEVE CHEST PAIN CAUSED BY SLOUCHING

• Taking frequent breaks and avoiding prolonged sitting.
• Simple stretching and strengthening exercises that retract the shoulders can help bring you back into an upright posture and standing tall.
• You could work out with some weights or you could do activities like yoga.
• Improve your posture like how you sit in general and how you stand.

PHYSIOTHERAPY CAN HELP WITH PAIN RELIEF

• If you find you have persistent discomfort in your chest that doesn’t respond to treatment, we welcome you to visit us. Physiotherapy can be an effective tool for pain relief.
• We tailor our approach based on the individual patient and need. Whether you’re looking for treatment for your lower back pain, neck, or shoulders, our physiotherapists will work with you to improve your quality of life and your posture!

Compiled by :Naomi Wausi / Physical therapist