The Symptoms: One of your shoulders is perpetually lower than the other, (or doesn't move at all), your neck feels strained, and you find it difficult to maintain good posture, even when you're giving it 100 percent.

The Culprits: Unfortunately for our joints, fashionable purses are only getting bigger (even clutches are supersized). Single-strapped purses are designed to victimize shoulders and even two-handled totes -- often held in the elbow crook in the style of notorious over-sized purse wearer, Victoria Beckham (hence, the spread of Poshitis) -- are causing muscle strain and pain.

Heavy purses place asymmetrical strain on the body, which throws your entire posture off balance. "Not only does the shoulder and arm musculature have to work harder, but the neck and torso bend and rotate in compensation, placing even more strain on the small joints of the spine," says physical therapist Rebecca Jacobs. Factor in Posh's (relatable) propensity of pairing poor purse-holding with killer heels, and the back strain doubles. Orthopedists: 2. Victoria Beckham: 0 (Marriage to David Beckham excluded).

The most obvious solution: carry a lighter purse, or go purse free (when was the last time you used your pockets?) If that's blasphemous, and you're already carrying only the essentials, Dr. Rachel Frozenfar, a specialist in ergonomics and chiropractic, recommends ditching your tote for a messenger bag. "This style is best when carrying a heavier load, like a laptop. The bag's strap should fall across the chest, and the bag's weight should fall on your back." Apply this rule when carrying anything that is more than eight percent of your body weight.

No messenger? At the least, try alternating shoulders, and make sure your purse is as close to your body as possible to reduce stress on your shoulders and spine. And while a heavy bag over the shoulder isn't ideal, it's better than carrying it in the crease of the elbow (sorry, Posh.) Jacobs also recommends taking preventative measures at the gym: focus on your postural, core muscles, and shoulders with more planks and pushups.