Posture’s Surprising Impact on Health – from Constipation to Slow Digestion
In the bustling realm of modern life, it’s easy to overlook the seemingly innocuous act of maintaining good posture. However, recent research and insights from Meghan Markowski, a renowned physical therapist at Harvard-affiliated Brigham and Women’s Hospital, have revealed that posture-related problems extend far beyond mere back and neck discomfort. Indeed, poor posture has been linked to an array of health woes, including balance issues, headaches, breathing difficulties, and even surprising consequences like mood disturbances, sleep disruptions, fatigue, and jaw alignment.
Related: Drug absorption in the stomach affected by body posture
Delving into the lesser-known effects, Markowski highlights a startling connection between poor posture and seemingly unrelated conditions, such as incontinence, constipation, heartburn, and slow digestion. Stress incontinence, for instance, can be exacerbated by slouching, which increases abdominal pressure, placing added strain on the bladder and compromising the ability of pelvic floor muscles to counteract that pressure effectively.
Constipation, a common ailment that plagues many, may be triggered or aggravated by poor posture, particularly while sitting on the toilet. Hunching over with knees lower than hips can impede the natural flow of bowel movements, leading to uncomfortable symptoms during bowel movements.
Heartburn, an unpleasant burning sensation caused by stomach acid reflux, can also be influenced by one’s posture. Dr. Kyle Staller, a respected gastroenterologist at Harvard-affiliated Massachusetts General Hospital, warns that slouching after meals can exert pressure on the abdomen, forcing stomach acid upwards into the esophagus, intensifying heartburn symptoms.
So, what does good posture entail? According to Markowski, it’s all about maintaining a neutral, upright spine position, avoiding excessive flexing forward or backward. Practicing a neutral spine can go a long way in preventing various posture-related issues. Notably, this neutral spine alignment also extends to the act of moving one’s bowels. Adopting a proper posture by keeping the back straight and leaning forward at the hips while placing the feet on a footstool (elevating the knees higher than the hips) mimics a squatting position, which has been shown to facilitate bowel movement.
To ward off the risk of stress incontinence and bolster pelvic floor muscles, Markowski advises targeted exercises that strengthen these essential muscle groups. Incorporating a neutral spine alignment in daily activities can also help reduce abdominal pressure and its detrimental effects on various bodily functions.
For those who suspect that poor posture might be contributing to their health issues, seeking the guidance of a skilled physical therapist may be necessary. These specialists can create personalized programs encompassing exercises and stretches to improve core muscle strength and flexibility, bolstering the support provided by the abdomen, pelvic floor, and back muscles to maintain a healthy spine.
As the scientific community unravels the intricate connections between posture and overall well-being, it becomes evident that we must pay greater attention to the way we hold ourselves. Whether standing, sitting, or moving, practicing good posture could be the key to unlocking a healthier and more comfortable life.
Source: Harvard Health
