Sporten met Els

21/10/2025

The Connection Between Jaw Position, Posture, and Balance: What Science Says

Recent research suggests that the position of the lower jaw (mandible) plays a crucial role in overall posture and balance. While this may seem surprising, the jaw is closely linked to the musculoskeletal system through the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), cranial nerves, and even muscle chains that extend down the body.

The Science Behind Jaw Position and Posture

Studies have shown that an imbalanced or misaligned jaw can influence head position, neck muscle tension, and spinal alignment. A study published in Clinical Biomechanics found that alterations in jaw position can affect cervical spine posture, leading to compensatory changes in body alignment. When the lower jaw is misaligned, it can cause asymmetrical muscle activity in the neck and shoulders, potentially leading to postural imbalances.

Additionally, research in Gait & Posture has
demonstrated that jaw clenching or dysfunction in the TMJ can impact balance and stability. The study found that participants with TMJ disorders had increased postural sway, suggesting that jaw alignment plays a role in neuromuscular control.

How Jaw Position Affects Balance

The connection between the jaw and balance is likely due to the nervous system’s integration of proprioception (body awareness). The TMJ is closely related to the trigeminal nerve, which interacts with other sensory systems responsible for posture and equilibrium. Dysfunction in the jaw can lead to altered neural input, affecting how the body maintains stability.

02/09/2025

Ook leuk voor volwassenen. 🎨🫟

25/08/2025

"De schoenen die we dragen kunnen ons hele lichaam beïnvloeden – en het verkeerde paar kan stilletjes een kettingreactie van ongemak veroorzaken, met pijn in je rug, heupen, knieën en meer tot gevolg."

Gezonde voeten zijn soepel, zacht, sterk en veerkrachtig. Training voor een betere lichaamshouding begint bij de voet.

The shoes we wear can influence our entire body—and the wrong pair can quietly set off a chain reaction of discomfort, triggering pain in your back, hips, knees, and more. 👟

“Every time we walk, our feet need to be able to change shape,” says physical therapist Otto Lam. The heel should strike first, the foot should roll forward, and the toes should spread before pushing off—but the wrong shoe can disrupt this sequence.

Learn more about how different types of shoes affect your body and ways to identify shoe-related pain: https://on.natgeo.com/4oJq2XP

09/08/2025

Foot massage is so underrated!

After successfully experiencing last week’s routine, it’s time to elevate your practice and introduce a touch more intensity! 😊

Now, embrace a gradual boost of 10-15% in pressure over the course of 1-2 weeks of consistent daily massage.

Fun Fact: Routine massage can greatly enhance circulation, invigorate muscles, alleviate tension, and soothe discomfort.

Navigate this guide to embark on a daily regimen:

1. Gentle Toe Tugs
Begin by delicately pulling each toe. With one hand holding your foot, use the other to softly tug each toe, slightly increasing the pull for 10-20 seconds per toe.

2. Upper Foot Bliss
Focus on the top of your foot, particularly the spaces between the metatarsal bones. Start at the arrow’s apex in the image and gently slide your finger down to the toe joints. Spend a wholesome minute here.

3. Sole Serenity
Start near the heel and work your way toward the forefoot, using your thumbs or a small golf ball. Make a mental note of any tender points – these are key for the next phase. Dedicate 1-5 minutes here.

4. Targeted Relief
If you’ve identified any sensitive spots, it’s time for specialized treatment. Apply firm pressure with your thumb while alternating between pointing your toes up and down. Focus on each discomfort point for up to 30 seconds, allocating a maximum of 3 minutes for all points on each foot. Exercise caution if you have specific conditions.

5. Upper Foot Rejuvenation
Remember, this section plays a pivotal role in refining your squat. Check previous posts for detailed insight. Devote 45 seconds per foot for ideal results.

6. Final Flourish
Grasp your foot or ease into a crossed-leg position to gently flex and extend your toes. This graceful movement should unfold leisurely. Previous exercises should make this phase more accessible.

Consistently practicing this routine twice a day can grant your feet newfound suppleness!