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Back pain Lifting Posture

‘Good’ Posture Questioned

Posture is a frequent topic of discussion for patients, clinicians, the media, and society. A common belief is that back and/or neck pain is caused by sitting, standing or bending “incorrectly.”

Despite the absence of strong evidence to support these common beliefs, a large posture industry has flourished, with many interventions and products claiming to “correct” posture and prevent pain. Unfortunately, many health care professionals provide advice in line with this non–evidence-based perspective.

Common beliefs regarding posture and spinal health are explored based on research evidence and the outcomes are surprising. Below is a summary of the findings: 

  1. There is no strong evidence that a single “correct” posture exists and avoiding “incorrect” postures will not prevent back pain
  2. There are natural variations in spinal curvatures and no single spinal curvature type is strongly associated with pain.
  3. Posture reflects beliefs, moods and body image. Some postures are adopted as a protective strategy and may reflect vulnerability.
  4. It is safe to adopt what feels comfortable. Exploring different postures and changing habitual postures may provide relief.
  5. The spine is robust and can be trusted when loaded in a variety of postures.
  6. Sitting is not dangerous, nor should it be avoided. However moving and being physically activity is important for overall health.
  7. Preferred lifting styles are influenced by naturally varying spinal curvatures. Advice to adopt a specific posture or brace the core is not evidence based.

J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2019;49(8):562–564. doi:10.2519/jospt.2019.0610

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