Management

Back Safety: Poor Posture Hurts

Choose a preferred language

An unhealthy spine often starts with bad habits. Poor movement patterns and posture problems are common causes of back pain. Disk, bone, nerve, and soft tissue problems can all be affected by poor posture. They can lead to pain, stiffness, and other symptoms.

Side view outline of man showing spine, back muscles, and abdominal muscles.


Poor posture backfires

Poor posture can cause pain. Too much slouching puts increased pressure on the disks. An excessive lumbar curve can overload and inflame the vertebrae. As a result, the back muscles may tighten or spasm to “splint” and protect the spine. This adds to the pain you feel.


Correct posture: The key to safe movement

Your spine bears your weight throughout the day. This is true whether you’re sleeping, standing, or bending. Certain positions strain your spine more than others. But by maintaining correct posture in all positions, you can reduce the stress on your spine.

Graph showing pressure on lower back during walking, standing, sitting, and bending.


To improve your standing posture, follow these steps:

  • Breathe deeply.

  • Relax your shoulders, hips, and ankles.

  • Think of the ears, shoulders, hips, and ankles as a series of dots. Now, adjust your body to connect the dots in a straight line.

  • Tuck your buttocks in just a bit if you need to.

© 2000-2026 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.
surgery icon

Surgical Services

Learn more about the surgical services we offer.

View Services
schedule icon

Schedule an Appointment

Find the right provider and schedule anytime.

View Providers
Related Articles
Read article
Orthopedics
Plaster Splint Care

Here are directions to care for your splint at home.

Read article
Orthopedics
Back Safety: Sleeping Positions

When you sleep, keep your ears, shoulders, and hips in line.

Read article
Orthopedics
Hip Safety: Getting Into and Out of Bed

After hip replacement surgery, getting in and out of bed can be difficult. These instructions can help.

Read article
Orthopedics
Wearing a Rib Belt

A rib belt is an elastic strap that may help reduce pain from chest muscle strain or rib fracture.