Achieve Optimal Posture: Understanding Proper Body Alignment

Proper body alignment involves the proper positioning of the joints in the body that bear the most weight while in a standing position. It is critical for maintaining joint, muscle and bone health.

Good Alignment

• When the body is properly aligned, the head is evenly centered between the shoulders. Shoulders should be at the same level and the spine should be straight and the pelvis level. Both knees and ankles should be even with each other, and the feet pointed straight. Distribution of bodily weight is then even and balanced.

Bad Alignment

• When the joints are not properly aligned, bodily weight is not distributed evenly, which eventually leads to discomfort in the joints and muscles. Discomfort occurs in the muscles when one muscle or group of muscles has to compensate for improper movement due to the improper alignment of the joints. Some muscles are overworked, while others grow weaker from not being used.

Causes

• Bad alignment develops from improper posture. Continuously having improper postures when sitting, lifting heavy objects, walking and standing leads to a rearrangement of the alignment of the joints. This leads to improper muscle movements and pain and discomfort in the muscles and joints.