Neck Pain Relief

"Sit up straight and stop slouching!” You've likely heard this since childhood, but is there such a thing as perfect posture? The answer is a bit complicated. The latest research shows that it may be more important to consider ideal posture as both balanced and dynamic. We're also discovering that the ability to move through a full range of motion plays a big role in how your posture looks when you're still.

Your posture consists of a dynamic pattern of responses, reflexes, and habits- not a single position. The effects of gravity, the ergonomics of your desk at work, and your anatomy all play a role. For instance, even with great ergonomics, working on a computer for hours each day can lead to postural issues. Over time, the imbalances caused by long hours at work can lead to forward head posture, which can cause pain and potentially even degenerative changes of your joints. Forward head posture affects millions of people who spend their days using computers. It places excessive stress on your neck and shoulders while weakening the supporting muscles of your spine.

- Forward head posture affects millions and results in neck pain for up to 75% of people
- Neck pain, tension, stiffness, and tenderness are all signs of chronic forward head posture
- Trapezius strengthening has been shown to provide clinically significant relief for those struggling with neck pain as a result of forward head posture

Strength and flexibility play a significant role in your posture. Having good core strength and balancing that strength with flexibility can help you dynamically adapt to your environment. While "perfect" posture may not exist, each of us can improve our strength, flexibility, and ergonomics to reduce our likelihood of experiencing pain. If you spend each day working on a computer, ensuring that your spinal joints move correctly is a smart idea to keep you energized and feeling great.