If you’ve ever ended the day with a stiff neck, sore shoulders, or low back pain, your posture might be to blame. In today’s world of screens, desk jobs, and long commutes, poor posture has quietly become one of the leading causes of chronic pain.
At Flintridge Family Chiropractic, serving La Cañada Flintridge and the surrounding areas, Dr. Zimmerman and Dr. Shabazian frequently help patients break the cycle of pain by addressing postural imbalances at the root. Through targeted chiropractic care, ergonomic education, and movement support, we help you move and feel better all without relying on painkillers or invasive procedures.
Let’s explore how posture impacts your body and how chiropractic can offer lasting relief.
What Is “Good” Posture, and Why Does It Matter?
Posture refers to the alignment of your body when you sit, stand, or move. Good posture keeps your bones and joints in optimal position so that your muscles can work efficiently. It helps distribute stress evenly across the body and reduces wear and tear on joints and ligaments.
Poor posture, on the other hand, places uneven stress on your muscles, ligaments, and spine. Over time, this leads to:
- Chronic muscle tension and fatigue
- Nerve compression and inflammation
- Joint dysfunction and arthritis
- Decreased flexibility and mobility
- Headaches, neck pain, and back pain
One of the most common culprits is what’s known as “tech neck”, a forward-head posture caused by looking down at phones, tablets, or laptops. For every inch your head leans forward, it adds 10 pounds of pressure to your spine.
The Posture–Pain Connection
When your body is out of alignment, it has to work harder to stay upright. Muscles become overactive and tight in some areas and weak in others. This imbalance sets the stage for chronic pain.
At Flintridge Family Chiropractic, we often see patients who come in for things like:
- Tension headaches
- Shoulder pain
- Mid-back stiffness
- Sciatica or low back pain
- Numbness or tingling in the arms or legs
In many cases, these symptoms can be traced back to postural imbalances, not necessarily an acute injury. The longer the posture remains uncorrected, the more chronic and resistant to healing the pain becomes.
How Chiropractic Helps Correct Posture
Chiropractors are spinal alignment experts. At Flintridge Family Chiropractic, Dr. Zimmerman and Dr. Shabazian start with a thorough postural and spinal evaluation. We look for misalignments, joint restrictions, and muscle imbalances that contribute to poor posture and pain.
From there, your care may include:
1. Chiropractic Adjustments
Gentle, precise spinal adjustments help realign your spine, improve joint function, and reduce nerve irritation. This relieves pain and allows your body to move more naturally.
2. Postural Retraining
We work with you on awareness and retraining, helping you recognize poor posture habits and guiding you toward better movement patterns.
3. Muscle Balancing Techniques
Tight or weak muscles often need to be addressed alongside spinal adjustments. We may use stretching, trigger point therapy, or recommend specific strengthening exercises.
4. Ergonomic Coaching
Simple changes to your workstation, sleeping position, or daily habits can make a big difference. We’ll help you make practical, sustainable improvements.
Sedentary Lifestyles and Chronic Pain
Modern life keeps many of us in a seated position for hours a day whether at a desk, in the car, or on the couch. Prolonged sitting weakens the core, shortens hip flexors, rounds the shoulders, and contributes to that slouched, forward-head posture that strains the spine.
Even those who exercise regularly are not immune if the majority of the day is spent in poor alignment.
Breaking up long periods of sitting with movement, using a standing desk, and incorporating posture-focused exercises like yoga, Pilates, or mobility drills can significantly reduce postural strain.
Is It Too Late to Fix My Posture?
Absolutely not. While long-standing postural issues may take time to correct, the body is remarkably adaptable. With the right support, most people can make meaningful improvements at any age.
At Flintridge Family Chiropractic, we meet you where you are. Whether you’re dealing with a recent flare-up or a long history of back pain, we’ll create a personalized plan to help you restore balance and comfort.
Supporting the Health of All Body Types
We’ve had the honor of working with a wide range of patients—from active children and desk-bound professionals to seniors and even professional athletes, including some from the Women’s Olympic Soccer Team. No matter your background or activity level, good posture plays a foundational role in your quality of life.
Chiropractic is not just about adjusting your spine, it’s about helping your body function the way it was designed to.
5 Simple Posture Tips You Can Start Today
- Check Your Head Position: Your ears should align over your shoulders. Avoid letting your head drift forward.
- Set Up Your Desk Properly: Keep screens at eye level and your feet flat on the floor.
- Move Every 30 Minutes: Even a quick stretch or walk around the room can reset your posture.
- Strengthen Your Core: A strong core supports better posture throughout the day.
- Stretch Tight Muscles: Focus on the chest, hip flexors, and neck.
Let’s Get You Back in Alignment
Posture is more than just standing up straight, it’s the foundation of a healthy, pain-free body. Whether you’re dealing with persistent neck and back issues or simply want to improve your long-term health, chiropractic care offers a natural, effective path forward.
At Flintridge Family Chiropractic, Dr. Zimmerman and Dr. Shabazian are here to guide you with expert care and a customized plan to improve your posture and relieve pain.
Schedule your visit today and discover how better posture can help you feel better, move better, and live better.
