If you’re like most people, you suffer from some type of reoccurring back pain or maybe even some discomfort in your neck. A lot of things could be causing these symptoms. You may have just started a new workout routine, for example, or purchased a new mattress. Stress can play a role as well. However, you may be shocked to know that something as simple as fixing your posture could be the only solution you need.
Better Posture While Standing
When standing, the majority of people will default to a relaxed pose, usually with our weight more on one foot than the other and our hips off to the side. This may feel comfortable at the time, but it’s going to cause you discomfort later. Instead, you should be distributing your bodyweight evenly. You’ll know you’re doing this correctly when the fronts, backs and sides of your feet all feel the same amount of pressure.
Better Posture While Sitting
Unfortunately, most of us spend far more time sitting than standing. This can cause a number of health problems and researchers are finding out more and more that sitting all day can be a really bad thing, no matter what kind of chair you’re using.
Regardless of how much it can harm our health, most of us have to sit for work. If this describes you, at least get up once an hour and stretch out. Stand for five minutes if you can, using the posture we mentioned above.
When you are sitting, make sure that you’re sitting up straight and that your ears, shoulders and hips are all staying in one vertical line. This will take practice as most of us will either lean forward or back. Over time, though, it will become second nature. For added help making it through the day, alternate between sitting at the front and back of your seat. When sitting at the back, use the backrest as a support for your straight spine, not as a crutch to lean against.
Get up and Move around Throughout the Day
Like we just mentioned, you won’t be doing yourself any favors by sitting for hours on end. You need to get up and move a bit throughout the day. As your muscles tire, it becomes easier and easier for your posture to suffer. When you slouch or slump over, your neck and spine have to take on extra pressure. A quick break to stretch, walk, or just stand can go a long way in helping your muscles get some needed relaxation.
Think about Accessorizing
If you don’t have the benefit of an ergonomic chair (some people even like exercise balls), consider other products that may help. Footrests can be great, for example. Portable lumbar back supports are becoming very popular. Anything that helps you keep that perfect posture we mentioned above should be a welcomed addition to your day.
Of course, if you already have back problems, no amount of good posture is going to help on its own. Call Advanced Chiropractic and Holistic Wellness Center today at 702-597-1181 and we can begin realigning it so your posture can improve.