Does Bad Posture Really Cause Back Pain?

‘Bad’ Posture Does Not Cause Back Pain

We've all heard it before: "Sit up straight!", "Don't slouch!", "Good posture is key!" 

But hold on just a minute.

Let's have a chat about the relationship between bad posture and back pain because it may not be all that it seems.

 It's time to debunk a myth that's been lurking around like that monster under your bed.

The Accused: Bad Posture

Before we delve into the nitty-gritty, let's lay out the case. Bad posture – the villain of office chairs, the arch-nemesis of standing desks, and a trigger that brings you back to childhood, forever being told to stand straighter. 

Traditional physiotherapy research insists that bad posture is the chief culprit behind back pain. It’s woven into every article you see from Dr Google, every leaflet you get handed and many of the health professionals you speak to.

But it’s time to update our belief systems - research has changed a lot! 

The Defense: Unveiling the Truth

Contrary to popular belief, recent research suggests that bad posture isn't necessarily the villain it's been made out to be. Yes, you read that right. 

Slouching is not the reason your back is aching every day.

And there is a lot of research out there to back this up. One study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association [1] dismisses the idea that posture is the be-all and end-all of back pain. They found that while posture  can play a role, other factors like muscle strength and lifestyle choices are much more important.

The Movement Perspective

Try this one minute visual- I want you to clench your hands into a fist and continue to squeeze them for a full minute.

Hands starting to get a bit tired, achey and uncomfortable?

This is how your back feels when you force it into an upright position all day every day.

Your postural muscles need a break, they need the opportunity to sit in a relaxed position. 

Movement is key - no sustained position is going to help your back pain, your muscles and joints need the freedom of movement.

Final Thoughts

It's time to release the notion that bad posture is the reason for your back pain. Remember, your body is a dynamic masterpiece that craves movement and variety.

So, go ahead, bend, twist, and maybe even do a little shimmy. Your back will thank you, and you'll be too busy enjoying life to worry about whether you're sitting up straight enough.

[1] Reference: "Posture and back pain." Journal of the American Medical Association, 2009.

Disclaimer: This blog is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalised guidance.