We all know how important correct posture is to our general health. In fact, poor posture can negatively impact your health by causing physical pain and digestive issues, restricting breathing, as well as affecting your self-esteem and confidence levels.
To prevent such potential health issues as a result of poor posture, here are a few tips from a trained chiropractor to make sure you maintain correct posture while standing and sitting, or to help you fix your posture problems now!
1. Be mindful of your sleeping position
The position you sleep in can affect your daily posture and the way you move when you’re awake. Although it’s difficult to make sure you sleep in the correct posture when you are unconscious, it doesn’t hurt to try to fall asleep in the correct position.
It is recommended that you sleep on your back. A chiropractic pillow lifting your knees may help, as well as a firm mattress to support your back. Mattresses should also be changed every six to eight years.
In the case that sleeping on your back is too uncomfortable for you, you may also sleep in a straight line on your side. Your feet should be in line with your hips, and your hips should be in line with your shoulders and head. You can fit a pillow between your knees as well to help lessen the pressure on one side of your back.
2. Never sit for too long
Sitting down for long periods of time may cause your body to become stiff, and solidify any poor postures you may already have. Instead, it is recommended that you get up and walk around or stretch every hour with a ten minute break. Move your legs around and perform some easy stretches.
It is also important to make sure you are sitting correctly in your chair. When leaning on your chair, your spine should be in a relaxed S-curve. Your feet should touch the ground, and your knees should be at a right angle. If possible, the base of your seat should be adjusted to be slightly lower than the back of your seat.
3. Be active
Make sure you are regularly exercising to help support good posture. Relaxing activities such as yoga, swimming and pilates may help. Of course, always stretch before and after exercise to warm up your body.
4. Visit health practitioners for advice
If you’re unsure how the above advice may apply to you or find that they do not work to improve your own posture, be sure to consult with a professional chiropractor. Chiropractors are educated and trained in diagnosing and evaluating your health concerns, including poor posture. In fact, chiropractic adjustments may help care for your poor posture and relieve related issues such as body discomfort, back pain, neck pain and poor biomechanics.
If you are looking for a professional diagnosis on your posture and related health concerns, it may be worthwhile to pay a visit to your local chiropractor. Chiropractors can provide you with advice personalised to your situation and recommend the next steps you may take to improve your health.