How to Prevent Postural Disorders

Prolonged forward head and shoulder posture leads to postural disorders and body pain. Prof. Dr. Nihal Özaras notes an increase in clinic visits for postural complaints and states that these problems are frequently encountered in children and adolescents as well as desk workers. Prof. Dr. Nihal Özaras recommends making ergonomic adjustments in work environments to prevent postural disorders, avoiding remaining in the same position for extended periods, and using computers, tablets and smartphones at eye level. Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Specialist Prof. Dr. Nihal Özaras at Üsküdar University NPİSTANBUL Hospital explained the factors causing postural disorders and offered important recommendations.

People are dissatisfied with their posture

Prof. Dr. Nihal Özaras, noting an increase in clinic visits to Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Departments for postural complaints, continued as follows: "Patients seek medical attention both because they are dissatisfied with their posture and sometimes because neck, back, and lower back pain accompany this condition. Postural disorder can be defined as the failure to maintain the spine's normal shape—such as a slight depression in the neck, mild kyphosis in the back, and slight depression in the lower back—while standing or sitting."

More common in desk workers

Prof. Dr. Nihal Özaras, noting that postural disorder is frequently seen in desk workers and is also commonly encountered in children and adolescents due to intensive computer, tablet and smartphone use, stated: "Generally the head and shoulders are forward and the back is in a kyphotic position. Remaining in this position for extended periods causes the back muscles to lengthen, while certain neck and anterior chest wall muscles shorten and stiffen. It also leads to neck, arm and back pain."  

Should be held at eye level

Prof. Dr. Nihal Özaras stated that certain precautions must be taken to prevent postural disorders in the first place and concluded his remarks as follows: "If work is done at a desk, ergonomic adjustments should be made to the work environment. Computers, tablets and smartphones should be used while held at eye level. Avoiding remaining in the same position for extended periods is important. Evaluating posture and establishing a personalized exercise program is the fundamental treatment method that provides lasting benefit. This program typically includes exercises that strengthen neck and back muscles, lengthen shortened muscles, and increase scapular stabilization. Regular performance of these exercises ensures maintenance of healthy posture and prevents musculoskeletal system pain."