Bad posture causes pains

From migraine headache and neck pain to lower back, knee, and foot problems, doctors say many medical complaints are posture-related.

Poor posture when sitting, standing, or walking causes tiny structural changes and shifts throughout the body that can have painful consequences. The person begins to push the shoulders, neck, and head forward, tilt the pelvis, and shift the spine. This puts added pressure on muscles and joints.

The director of Manhattan Spine & Sports Medicine says people who work at a computer should take five-second breaks, stand up, stretch, and take a few deep breaths. Yoga and Pilates-based exercises that emphasize stretching and strengthening muscles can improve posture problems.

Overlooked cause of fatigue

Doctors at Georgetown University Medical Center say sinus infections are nine times more prevalent among people with unexplained long-term fatigue and six times more common in those with unexplained allover pain. About 14 million Americans are affected.

Chronic sinus infections make you feel tired and lower your pain threshold. But people don't usually connect fatigue or aches and pains with sinus pressure. They fail to mention it to their doctors.

If you have unexplained fatigue or pains, ask your doctor to check your sinuses. Treatment includes steroid nasal sprays, decongestants, and antibiotics if appropriate. If these don't help, surgery to remove blockage is next.