Most people around the world suffer from a bad posture and this can happen out of habit or simply lifestyle choices. Practicing a better posture sometimes takes the help of a good chiropractor Centurion.
Before getting to the tips let’s see what causes bad posture in to begin with:
- Long periods being seated at a desk
- Carrying heavy backpacks
- Slouching in a chair as opposed to sit straight up
- Standing with a “flat back” posture (being seated for a long time can cause this posture)
- Leaning weight on one leg
- Hunch posture (often seen when texting from mobile phone)
- Pointed chin posture (when your computer screen is too high)
- Cradling a telephone between your neck and shoulder
Your chiro in Centurion can help you develop an exercise program to help you improve your posture and reducing the chances of long-term back issues.
Tips from Expert Chiropractor Centurion – Posture
1: When seated
Use a chair that supports your back especially the lumbar region (sit firmly against the back part of the chair). Make sure your feet are flat on the floor, however, a small footstool is fine to use. The knees must be higher than the hips. Never cross your legs at the knees as it restricts blood flow and can add to existing back issues.
2: When standing
Stand with your feet flat on the floor, and sometimes a floor stool can be used to weigh it out. Don’t choose to wear high heels for extended periods of time as this will cause pressure on your legs and feet amongst other.
3: When using a computer
Get a suitable chair with good support for your back and adjustability. As mentioned before your knees must be a bit higher than your hips and you could choose to purchase a footstood for maximum comfort.
4: When lifting objects (especially heavy ones)
Always lift with your legs and not your back, hence bending your knees and not your back. When lifting don’t try to move and twist your body into various directions because this can cause injury. Taking breaks between lifts is good practice.
5: Chores and home
Chores can often take its toll especially if it requires lifting and bending. It may sound strange but this will greatly benefit if you warmed up before starting chores. Warm up stretches will help a lot for physical labour like gardening. You can also take the weight off when ironing by resting one foot on a thick book or low foot stool like the ones used at a desk.
6: Telephone use
As mentioned earlier, never cradle your handset between your shoulder and neck. It’s also better to opt for a lighter device than having to carry a heavier one. Switching hands during the call, especially long phone calls is essential to free up the pressure and strain on one hand and arm.
7: Sleep time
If you’re going to sleep, avoid doing so with your head on the arm of the couch as this will cause server neck strain. Opt for a bed and not a sleeper couch or sofa, as these aren’t primarily focused on sleep posture, but rather posture when seated. Try as best you can to avoid sleeping on your stomach because this will hurt your lower back and if you sleep on your back, try putting a pillow under your knees.
Need help with neck pain, backpain or simply want to make sure that your nervous system is kept in shape, then speak to your chiro in Centurion is here to help!