Don't Let Poor Posture Get in Your Way
By Sandy Schroeder
Wherever you go, whatever you are doing, your posture can be a striking help or a disaster waiting to happen. If you think your posture is OK, do a double-check in a three-way mirror, or have someone take a picture of you. Startling results, such as a head that juts forward, rounded shoulders, or a protruding abdomen need to be spotted and changed.
How Your Chiropractor Helps
The Joint Chiropractic clinic near you provides a professional staff of doctors who can help you assess your spinal health, and your posture. Your chiropractor can suggest exercises to strengthen core muscles and help you with posture tips for everything you do.
A gentle targeted spinal adjustment may relieve aches and pains and provide an overall sense of well-being. Weekly 15-minute spinal adjustments may be the perfect way to keep your spine healthy as you work on your posture.
Looking Closer at Posture
Learning how posture can work for or against you while you sit, stand or lie down can help you avoid injury and pain.
If you sit for long periods of time at your desk or in front of a computer, and bend forward at the waist you are inviting injury and back pain. According to the American Chiropractic Association your posture can also be compromised by excess weight, pregnancy, high-heeled shoes, unhealthy standing or toting and loss of flexibility. If your posture is not up to par you can change it.
When You Sit
- Make sure your chair supports your low and mid-back
- Keep your feet flat on the floor
- Relax shoulders and keep forearms parallel to the ground
When You Stand
- Stand up straight with head centered over spine
- Tuck in your stomach
- Keep knees slightly bent
- Let arms hang loosely at your side
When You Are Lying Down
- Find a comfortable mattress with good support
- Choose a down pillow or other one that keeps head level with neck and body
- Sleep on your side or back
As your posture improves you may dodge a bullet, avoiding future back pain. I have watched many people go from digital slouches to straight-up posture positions with the help of their chiropractor. Often the whole family gets in on the act as teens reposition screens, younger kids learn correct screen posture early, and seniors avoid stooped positions.
When you are ready, stop by The Joint Chiropractic clinic near you. Everything is simple. Affordable personal healthcare plans require no insurance. Weekend and evening hours are available and walk-in visits are welcome. No appointments are needed.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Houston, Tex.