Back posture and deformities are normal

Have you ever worried or been told that your posture is “bad” or that a curved or slouched back means something is wrong? The good news is that there is no perfect or normal posture. Everyone’s bodies naturally vary and the spine is designed to move and adapt to different positions throughout the day.

Different activities require different postures and movement strategies. A slouched posture is not necessarily a problem, particularly if you are able to comfortably move into other positions. Rather than fixating on one “perfect” posture, it is more important to have better variety of movement options.

Spinal shapes and curves can also vary between people. Some people can have increased or decreased curves, while others may have conditions such as scoliosis. These differences do not mean that your back is weak, damaged or unhealthy. Every back comes in different shapes and sizes; a slightly different looking spine does not always correlate to pain or injury. Your spine does not have to look “straight” to be healthy.

Image 1: Spinal imaging in asymptomatic patients.

Spinal imaging often reveals changes such as disc degeneration, disc bulges and reduced disc height, even in people who have no back pain. As we age, these findings become increasingly common, with some changes present in the majority of people over 50. Importantly, seeing these changes on a scan does not automatically mean something is wrong or that they are the cause of your pain. Imaging results should always be considered alongside your symptoms, history and physical assessment, rather than viewed in isolation. Your spine is a strong, adaptable structure, and these changes do not necessarily prevent you from moving, exercising or staying active.

If you have further concerns, please contact your local physiotherapist for advice.

Good Country Physiotherapy Naracoorte is currently rolling out a back specific exercise program, contact the clinic on 8762 1515 for further information on the GLA:D back program. 

References:

ReturnToWorkSA. (2018). Spinal imaging in asymptomatic patients [Healthcare guideline]. https://www.rtwsa.com/media/documents/spinal-imaging-in-asymptomatic-patients.pdf

Brinjikji, W., Luetmer, P. H., Comstock, B., Bresnahan, B. W., Chen, L. E., Deyo, R. A., Halabi, S., Turner, J. A., Avins, A. L., James, K., Wald, J. T., Kallmes, D. F., & Jarvik, J. G. (2015). Systematic literature review of imaging features of spinal degeneration in asymptomatic populations. American Journal of Neuroradiology, 36(4), 811–816. https://doi.org/10.3174/ajnr.a4173