AskDocDoc
/
/
/
good posture and bad posture
FREE! Ask a Doctor — 24/7, 100% Anonymously
Get expert answers anytime. No sign-up needed.
General Health
Question #14480
6 days ago
17

good posture and bad posture - #14480

Mira

I am dealing with some serious back pain and I can’t help but think it’s all about good posture and bad posture. Last week I was sitting at my desk for hours like I usually do—totally slouched and honestly, I didn’t even realize how bad my posture was until my coworker pointed it out. I mean, I try to maintain good posture but with all the deadlines piling up, it’s hard to remember. Anyway, by the end of the day, I felt this sharp pain in my lower back like it was just screaming at me! I started doing some stretches, hoping that might help, but then I read somewhere that bad posture could be causing other issues too, like my tension headaches. It got me worried. Can bad posture really lead to more than just back pain? I’m trying to fix my posture, but it feels like no matter what I do, I slip back into those bad habits! Are there any practical tips for maintaining good posture throughout the day, especially when I’m glued to the computer? Like, I feel like I need reminders! Also, how do I know if there's something more serious going on, you know? Any insights would be super helpful, thanks!

FREE
FREE! Ask a Doctor — 24/7,
100% Anonymously
Get expert answers anytime, completely confidential.
No sign-up needed.
CTA image asteriksCTA image

Doctors’ responses

Bad posture can indeed contribute to a variety of issues beyond just back pain, and it’s good that you’re considering this connection. Poor posture can place unnecessary strain on muscles and ligaments, potentially leading to problems like tension headaches, neck strain, or even issues down in the hips and knees over time. Sitting slouched for prolonged periods can compress your lower back discs, which might explain your sharp lower back pain. Ensuring proper ergonomics at your desk is key. Your chair should support your lower back—consider using a lumbar support pillow or rolling up a towel for this purpose. Your feet should rest flat on the ground, and your knees should be at hip level—not higher or lower. The top of your computer screen should be at or just below your eye level so you’re not tilting your head up or down. Implementing short, frequent breaks can make a big difference too. Aim to stand, stretch, or walk for a few minutes every hour to alleviate the strain on your back, shoulders, and neck. Stretching exercises like gentle neck rolls, shoulder shrugs, and hamstring stretches can be very beneficial. You might set hourly reminders on your phone or computer to prompt you to adjust your posture or take a brief walk around the office. If you’re still experiencing pain despite these adjustments, it might be worth visiting a healthcare professional to rule out any underlying issues such as a herniated disc or other conditions that require more direct interventions. Signs that something more serious might be going on include persistent numbness, tingling, or weakness, as these could suggest nerve involvement and should prompt a more thorough evaluation. Prioritizing posture awareness along with ergonomic adjustments and regular activity breaks can help combat the impacts you’re noticing from poor posture and potentially mitigate other related issues over time. If the issues persist or worsen, don’t hesitate to seek a comprehensive evaluation by a doctor.

4882 answered questions
65% best answers

0 replies
FREE! Ask a Doctor — 24/7,
100% Anonymously

Get expert answers anytime, completely confidential. No sign-up needed.

About our doctors

Only qualified doctors who have confirmed the availability of medical education and other certificates of medical practice consult on our service. You can check the qualification confirmation in the doctor's profile.


Related questions