Following spinal deformities cause bad posture; they can be congenital or acquired.

Congenital spinal deformities are caused by fetal developmental disorders causing lifelong disability since infancy.

Acquired spinal abnormalities usually happen due to trauma, surgeries, degenerative disorders, infections, auto-immune disease, and a sedentary lifestyle(long-day sitting and slouching).

1. Scoliosis
2. Kyphosis
3. Lordosis

Good posture involves proper muscle engagement, promoting an efficient metabolic process. Due to appropriate muscular activity, calories are burned.

Contrary to this, poor posture causes muscle imbalance and a weak core, leading to decreased metabolism.

Improper posture causes generalized muscle fatigue, which can cause joint and body aches. Increased fatigue may lead to compensatory overeating to relieve it.

A sedentary lifestyle can lead to poor posture. Jobs that are hectic and require a whole day of sitting can cause stress. A sense of poor body figure can also lead to depression and “stress eating.”

Chronic stress increases cortisol levels, which mediates weight gain.

Bad posture breeds backache and weakens the core muscles, which causes fatigue. Additionally, an individual cannot engage in physical activity due to a misaligned body which hurts on physical exertion.

As already discussed, a misaligned body causes an inferiority complex; it can lead to depression and anxiety. Stress and anxiety can lead to stress eating, causing weight gain.

Sitting or slouching for too long can cause gastric distress. Due to slow metabolism, digestion also slows down. It can lead to multiple conditions.

1. GERD
2. Constipation
3. Bloating
4. Fecal or urinary incontinence
5. Fat gain due to slow metabolism

Bad posture acquired through slouching or long day sitting can be prevented, and the rule of thumb is;

Prevention is better than cure.

If you notice your posture worsening, you should consider a consultation with a physiotherapist. Early rehabilitation is far better than it’s too late.

1. Always use lumbar support if your job requires a whole day of sitting.

2. Always develop a habit of observing your sitting posture.

3. Spare at least 30mins to 1hour for gym or running. It will improve your overall physical well-being.

4. Do core-strengthening exercise to boost muscle strength. It will increase metabolism.

5. Intermittent fasting can also help with weight control if one can’t do physical activity.

6. Try rehabilitation exercises that improve posture.

7. Avoid depression and anxiety due to bad posture. Always think of the individuals who have lifelong disabilities that can do nothing but count their existence in this world.