Slouching may seem comfortable for a while, but the long-term effects include lower back muscle pain and spine problems. This pain ranges from mild twinges to debilitating pain. Pain medicines and massage alleviates some pain short-term, but practicing correct posture while sitting or standing is the only way to alleviate it long-term.
Features
Good posture means shoulders are slightly back and are not hunched over (slouched). This reduces muscle and vertebral strain.
Effects
Lower back pain usually begins as twinges of pain that progress to a deep ache. This occurs because slouching strains lower back muscles and puts pressure on the lumbar vertebrae.
Prevention/Solution
Good posture is the best way to prevent lower back pain. This kind of pain is treated with pain medicines, muscle relaxants and hot or cold packs.
Warning
Slouching can lead to spinal problems due to pressure on the discs. Don't overcompensate by thrusting your chest forward too much--this will also cause back problems.
Considerations
Back supports (worn) that correct posture may be helpful but can weaken muscles if used for too long. Training the muscles simply by practicing better posture is better, in most cases.
Tags: back pain, correct posture, Good posture, lower back