There are a wide variety of factors that can cause headaches, but one of the lesser-known ones is poor posture. Poor posture actually does a lot more harm than just make a person look slouched over and less confident.
Posture and headaches are interconnected, and the way that a person sits and stands can influence the frequency and severity of headaches.
Here is some information about the connection between poor posture in headaches, including why they are linked and other common poor posture effects. This article will also offer helpful suggestions about how to improve posture on a daily basis for better headache management and overall health.
The Various Poor Posture Effects
Many people grew up with a parent, grandparent, or teacher telling them to straighten up and practice good posture. Looking poised actually has a big impact on the curve of the spine, and poor posture can lead to neck and back pain over time. Poor posture is also linked to poor digestion, more varicose veins in the legs, and an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Many people who have improved their posture and corrected bad posture habits report feeling more energized and less sluggish throughout the day.
Linking Posture and Headaches
In addition to these poor posture effects, there’s also a strong connection between poor posture and headaches and jaw aches. When the body is hunched over, the jaw is more likely to tighten and clench. This clenching causes the muscles of the face to tighten, which is a common cause of tension headaches. When the neck and back is hunched over unnaturally, extra strain is put on the muscles of the face and head, which also makes headaches more likely. Meanwhile, the temporomandibular joint suffers from unnecessary wear and can cause long-term jaw pain as well.
How to Improve Posture to Reduce Headaches
One of the first steps to improving posture and making the body less prone to tension headaches is to make a conscious effort to drop the shoulders down towards the ground as often as possible. People who type on computers all day or who look at a
smartphone in their hands frequently have a tendency to hunch the shoulders upward without even realizing it.
It is also recommended to sit up straight while working on an office chair or even sitting on a sofa at home. Invest in a high-quality, ergonomic chair for working and perhaps a lumbar support pillow for extra back support. Take frequent breaks throughout the day to change postures and allow the spine to experience a variety of positions. Exercises that strengthen the core muscles are great for promoting better posture. Properly lifting heavy objects, observing one’s standing posture in a mirror, and choosing a supportive bed and pillows for sleeping are all important aspects of improving posture too.
When tough headaches strike, there’s
Vanquish, but simple posture improvements may be able to help prevent them from even forming in the first place.
Vanquish® is indicated for tension headaches. If you have a cluster headache, sinus headache, migraine headache or any other type of headache you may want to consult a doctor.
