Expert: Gerald Anzalone, D.C. - 8/15/2011

Question
Hello I am almost 20 years old and for most of my life I have had bad posture. I started worrying about it when I would sit up or stand up straight which would cause me to become slightly lightheaded and feel fatigued. I just want to know if this is normal for people with bad posture. It worries me because this is a symptom of  dysautonomia. Also I was just wondering if this is normal for bad posture how can I correct my posture without getting lightheaded when I attempt to sit up straight? Thanks for your time.

Answer
Payton,

You first should see your primary care provider to have your blood pressure monitored; a condition known as orthostatic hypotension can cause dizziness upon standing from a seated or laying down position. Lightheartedness is not typically associated with poor posture.

Poor posture is responsible, however, for muscular fatigue, as well as other pain-related problems. I recommend this workbook for practical advice on improving your posture and your muscular condition:

http://tinyurl.com/3s8uek6

I hope this helps to answer your question.