The Hidden Impact of Poor Posture

Hey there, and welcome back to the Hatlen Family Chiropractic podcast—where we’re all about helping you feel better, move better, and live better. I’m Dr. Hatlen, and today, we’re talking about something that almost everyone struggles with… posture.

Now, I know what you’re thinking—posture? Isn’t that just about standing up straight? Well, yes—but it’s also so much more than that. Your posture has a huge effect on how your body functions day to day. It’s not just about looking confident or avoiding back pain—it’s directly tied to how your spine and nervous system work.

Let’s break it down.

When you slouch—especially at a desk or on your phone—it changes the natural alignment of your spine. And that puts excess pressure on certain areas, especially the neck, mid-back, and lower spine. Over time, that can lead to issues like headaches, fatigue, and even reduced lung capacity. Yeah—your posture can affect how deeply you breathe!

One of the biggest culprits we see in our office is what’s called “tech neck.” It happens when you’re constantly looking down at a phone or computer screen. Your head actually becomes heavier to your spine the more it tilts forward—putting major strain on your neck muscles and upper back.

So what can you do about it?

First, start by being aware. Try checking in with your posture a few times a day. Are your shoulders creeping up? Is your head forward? Bring it all back in line—shoulders back, chin slightly tucked, and ears aligned over your shoulders.

Second—move often. Even if you have a desk job, aim to stand up and stretch every 30 to 60 minutes. Set a reminder on your phone if you need to. And if you’re working from home, consider setting up a more ergonomic workspace—raise your monitor to eye level and use a chair with good support.

And lastly—get checked. Chiropractic care is one of the best ways to not only correct posture-related issues but also to keep your spine functioning the way it’s supposed to. At Hatlen Family Chiropractic, we take a personalized approach. Whether you’re a student spending hours at a laptop or a parent juggling work and home life, we tailor care to fit your lifestyle and goals.

So if you’ve been dealing with neck stiffness, tension headaches, or just that overall “slouched” feeling, don’t wait. Let’s get to the root of it.

Thanks for tuning in today. If you have questions or want to schedule an appointment, visit us at our website in the description, or just give us a call.

Until next time—stand tall, breathe deep, and take care of that spine.