Is My Posture Causing My Pain?
The Hidden Link Between How You Sit and Where You Hurt
Have you ever noticed how your neck aches after a long day at the computer? Or maybe your lower back is protesting after hours of Netflix binging? You’re not imagining it – your posture might be the real culprit behind pain that seems to come from nowhere.
At Milton Physiotherapy, we see this connection daily. Many clients arrive thinking they’ve “done something” to their back or neck, when actually, it’s months or years of postural habits finally catching up with them.
What's Really Going On?
Poor posture doesn’t just look unprofessional – it creates a cascade of problems throughout your body:
- Forward head posture puts extra strain on your neck muscles, leading to tension headaches and upper back pain. For every inch your head moves forward, it effectively doubles the weight your neck has to support.
- Rounded shoulders tighten your chest muscles and weaken your upper back, creating a cycle that’s hard to break without intervention.
- Slouched sitting switches off your core muscles and increases pressure on your lower back discs by up to 40% compared to standing.
- Tilted pelvis from prolonged sitting can create hip tightness and lower back instability, leading to pain that feels like it’s coming from your spine.
The kicker? Your body adapts to these positions, making them feel “normal” – even when they’re causing damage.
What You Can Do at Home
Small changes can make a big difference:
- Set hourly reminders to stand and move—even 30 seconds helps reset your posture
- Adjust your workspace so your screen is at eye level and your feet are flat on the floor
- Try the “wall test” daily—stand against a wall and see how your natural posture compares
- Strengthen your glutes with simple bridges—strong glutes support your pelvis and lower back
- Stretch your hip flexors regularly if you sit for long periods
When It's Time to See a Physio
If you’re experiencing regular headaches, neck stiffness, lower back pain, or shoulder tension—especially if it’s worse after work or long periods of sitting—your posture likely needs professional attention.
Don’t wait until the pain becomes chronic. Postural problems are much easier to correct when caught early.
How We Help at Milton Physiotherapy
Our team specialises in identifying and correcting postural dysfunction. We’ll assess your alignment, muscle imbalances, and daily habits to create a personalised plan that actually works.
Your treatment might include:
- Postural Assessment & Correction
- Exercise Prescription with targeted strengthening
- Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy to address existing pain
- Yoga classes designed to counteract desk-related stiffness
Final Word
Your posture is speaking to you—the question is, are you listening? With some awareness and the right guidance, you can break the cycle of postural pain and move through your day with greater comfort and confidence.
Struggling with posture-related pain in Milton or Brisbane’s inner west? Book your postural assessment today – your future self will thank you.
