Why this emphasis on definitions? Because it is important to get what you really want. If you are looking for a comforting experience that leaves you relaxed then massage is what you should be seeking.  However, if you are experiencing pain, whether chronic or acute or are looking to improve your function, then it is bodywork to which you should turn. Here at Muscular Solutions I am proud to have created a system of bodywork I call Manual Medicine. I have combined the best of Muscular Therapy and other soft tissue disciplines, Physical Therapy, Chiropractic and Osteopathic ideas with an eye towards Eastern medicine to create a new paradigm for restoring the body back to balance and health and thereby eliminate pain and improve function.  Now here is the real secret: By restoring the body back to balance an incredibly deep sense of relaxation occurs that often last far longer than from a therapeutic massage alone. In effect, by receiving a session of treatment at Muscular Solutions, you are getting the best of both worlds and nothing could be better than that.

Whether sitting or standing, poor posture can lead to a whole host of problems. When one sits with poor posture it causes the lumbar spine (lower back) to be round, the thoracic spine to collapse and the shoulders to round inward, the head to jut forward and the suboccipital muscles to contract. This poor posture exacerbates or potentates low back pain, herniated discs in both the low back and neck, thoracic outlet syndrome, rotator cuff problems, carpal tunnel syndrome, tennis elbow, neck pain, headaches, decreased digestion, decreased lung capacity as well as many other issues.

Upon standing ones hip flexors are short and the low back is tight leading to a decreased stride length. The forward head posture and rounded shoulders that were a result of poor seated posture often remains while standing. Because the shoulders are rounded inward there is decreased or no arm swing while walking causing the whole spine to further stiffen as the natural rotation that occurs throughout the spine with proper gait is absent. This locking of the spine leads to complaints of constant back pain and tightness and contributes to pain and problem experienced in the lower extremities.

These are just some of the problems that poor posture causes. So, the next time someone tells you to sit up straight I suggest you listen. It will do your body good!

Next time I’ll write about the proper way to correct one’s posture in both sitting and standing.