Posture and health: why it’s essential to take care of it starting from childhood

“Posture is the sum of all adaptations our body assumes in response to the environment, both in static and dynamic positions. It is the result of the balance between muscles, joints, and the nervous system, which work together to counteract gravity and allow us to perform daily activities efficiently and pain-free,” explains Dr. Montano.

Correct posture ensures optimal alignment of the spine and other body structures, leading to:

• Improved musculoskeletal function
• Greater energy efficiency
• Enhanced physical and mental well-being

“The signs of poor posture can be either obvious or subtle. Common symptoms include:

• Pain and stiffness in the back, shoulders, and joints, especially in the cervical and lumbar regions
• Fatigue
• Tiredness

Less common and more nonspecific symptoms may include:

• Headaches
• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Gastroesophageal reflux
• Bruxism”

“The causes of poor posture are varied and often linked to modern lifestyle habits:

• Sedentary behavior
• Prolonged smartphone use
• Non-ergonomic chairs and desks that force the body into unnatural, prolonged positions
• Muscle weakness and lack of body awareness, making it harder to maintain correct posture
• Stress and anxiety
• Overweight
• Past injuries
• Visual or foot disorders, which can increase muscle tension, leading to closed and rigid postures,” states Dr. Montano.

Over time, poor posture can lead to overload of various structures. Common resulting conditions include:

• Chronic back pain
• Cervical pain (cervicalgia)
• Early-onset osteoarthritis
• Tension-type headaches
• Sciatica and paresthesia
• Tinnitus and dizziness

“In addition, poor posture can impair internal organ function, causing respiratory, digestive, masticatory (e.g., reflux, constipation, bruxism), and circulatory disorders. All of this inevitably results in a general state of fatigue with negative consequences for quality of life,” adds the physiatrist.

“Early intervention is essential. During growth, the body is especially adaptable and responsive to external stimuli. Early postural assessment allows for the correction of imbalances and enhances spatial awareness in children and adolescents:

• Helps prevent chronic conditions in adulthood
• Supports harmonious development of the musculoskeletal system

That’s why a thorough medical evaluation is important.”

The physiatrist is the specialist in Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine responsible for diagnosing and treating postural disorders.

“At Zucchi Wellness Clinic, we perform comprehensive postural assessments to thoroughly understand the causes of the problem and develop a therapeutic pathway tailored to the patient’s specific needs.

During the initial visit, we assess body alignment, joint mobility, body segment symmetry, and muscular condition. When necessary, we complement the clinical analysis with advanced tools such as D-Wall postural analysis and podoscopy.”

After evaluation, a personalized treatment plan may include:

• Physical therapies (laser therapy, TECAR therapy, ultrasound, electrotherapy, shockwave therapy)
• Manual medicine techniques
• Global Postural Re-education (RPG)
• Pain-relief massage therapy
• Osteopathic techniques
• Ozone-oxygen therapy

Each rehabilitation program is tailored to the individual and typically includes cycles of about 10 sessions, with periodic progress monitoring.

“The first step in correcting poor posture is becoming aware of the positions we assume daily, especially during work or prolonged sitting.”

Useful habits include:

• Sitting with a straight back and feet flat on the floor
• Keeping the monitor at eye level
• Resting elbows and keeping shoulders relaxed
• Taking active breaks every 30–60 minutes to stretch and loosen muscles
• Avoiding remaining in the same position for too long

“Regular physical activity is essential to prevent and correct postural disorders. A stronger body can maintain correct posture with less effort,” says Dr. Montano.

Exercise:

• Strengthens stabilizing muscles of the spine
• Improves flexibility and balance
• Helps the body better cope with the mechanical stress of daily life

The most suitable disciplines for posture improvement are:

• Pilates
• Yoga
• Postural gymnastics
• Swimming
• Brisk walking
• Light cycling

These activities keep the body active without overloading the joints.