The Importance of Posture
Posture is the mechanical relationship between bones, muscles, and joints connecting the entire human body. While posture can be described by this complex relationship, the concept of good posture is easily understood by a majority of the population. In general, good posture results in:
- An even distribution of forces throughout the body
- Minimal wear on the joints
- Natural muscle length
- Normal range of motion
- Proper placement of the body's vital organs
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
- Tendonitis
- Muscle or tendon strain
- Ligament sprain
- Tension headaches
- Ruptured/herniated disk
Impact of Poor Posture: Back Pain and its Economic Cost
The most common MSD associated with poor posture is back pain - this is a result of increased stress on the muscles in the back from improper posture. In the United States, back pain is the #2 reason for work absences, second to only the common cold. It makes up approximately 30% of workers compensation costs. 45% of workers between the ages of 35 and 55 suffer from acute back pain at least once per year. Between workers compensation, healthcare costs, and lost productivity, the economic cost of back pain in the U.S. in 2011 was estimated to be between $50 billion and $100 billion.