A lot of people, including our patients at Houghton Physical Therapy, often underestimate the power of great posture, why your posture is so important, and the endless benefits it can have on your lifestyle.
If you find yourself struggling to sit up straight on a daily basis, you most likely have an ongoing posture issue. It is common for back pain to develop as a result of poor posture. If your posture is not correct, it can cause stress on other parts of your body, resulting in pain, inflammation, or dysfunction. Fortunately, posture can be improved with the help of physical therapy.
Great news! Many of us get to spend our days doing a variety of things, like sitting at our desks or driving, standing for extended periods, lifting heavy items, taking care of our little ones, or even lounging on the couch watching our favorite shows. However, it is important to keep in mind that maintaining posture while performing these activities is crucial for our well-being and overall lifestyle in the long term. So let’s take a positive step forward and prioritize good posture today!
Get ready to feel fantastic because this blog post is packed with essential information about your posture. You’ll learn about what posture is, why it’s so important to maintain a healthy posture, and best of all, we’ll provide you with tips to make sure you’re getting the absolute best chance of reducing your risk of neck, shoulder, and back pain as you age. So sit back, relax, and get ready to take the first step toward a happier, healthier you!
How did I develop poor posture?
We get so caught up in whatever task we’re working on that we neglect to pay attention to how our bodies are positioned.
Poor posture isn’t due to laziness or apathy; rather, it generally has something to do with a physical weakness within our bodies. We slouch, slump, hunch, and droop over when we get feel drained because our bodies literally get tired of holding us up.
Even if you exercise regularly, you may have a few weak muscles that are contributing to poor posture that you are unaware of.
Why does my posture affect my back?
If you are suffering from persistent back pain, there is a good chance it is due to your posture. Poor posture is one of the most common causes of back pain. Do you slouch at your desk, hunch over your keyboard, or lean forward when you’re reading your emails? These are all things that people do subconsciously, without even realizing the toll it takes on the body.
This affects how your body moves throughout the day, whether you’re sitting, standing, walking, jogging, or jumping. Your posture may change depending on what you’re doing; for example, it may be great when you’re standing. But, when you sit at a desk, your body begins to hunch and fold in ways it’s not supposed to.
What Happens If I Don’t Look After My Posture?
Great Question!
It’s amazing you’re taking an interest in your posture and movement habits! Did you know that by improving your posture, you can improve blood circulation, feel less fatigued, and reduce chronic pain? Plus, it can help prevent long-term problems like herniated spinal discs, sciatica, and misalignments in your body.
By making small changes to your posture and movement habits, you can greatly improve your quality of life! Imagine being able to move freely and without pain – it’s a wonderful feeling! So let’s work together to improve your posture and make everyday life a breeze!
Our Top Tips To Improve Your Posture And Prevent Back Pain
Here are our top 3 tips, plus a video from our therapist Andrew, to help improve your posture.
- Sit Up Straight
It’s a simple tip, but it’s one that’s often overlooked: taking care of your back. If you have a job that requires you to sit for extended periods of time, it’s especially important to pay attention to your seating position. Take the time to adjust your chair and make use of all it’s features – after all, they’re there to support you.
2. Stand Up Straight
Standing up straight at work can make a big difference in how you feel throughout the day!
While it might be tempting to shift your weight onto one leg and give the other a break, this can actually be detrimental to your posture. Instead, try to distribute your weight evenly across both legs. This will help you maintain good posture and feel more comfortable while standing.
3. Move
If you find yourself slouching or struggling to get comfortable, it’s the perfect time to get up and get your body moving. By taking a break every 30 minutes to stretch or take a short walk, you can give your body a much-needed break.
Physical therapy can help you sit up straight!
What Can I Do To Improve My Posture?
The great thing about fixing your posture is that it’s not just a quick fix but a long-term solution to ease pain and discomfort. By committing to these tips and incorporating healthy habits into your daily routine, you’ll be setting yourself up for success.
With the guidance and support of a physical therapist, you can make significant progress toward your goals and overcome any obstacles standing in your way. So if you’re struggling with pain or discomfort related to posture, don’t hesitate to reach out to a professional for help. Together, you can create a plan that works for you and get back to living your best life!
Other Free Resources To Help With Posture
Want videos on demand? Check Out Our YouTube Channel (Remember to hit subscribe, so you don’t miss out on our newest videos!)
Watch Our Video- Three Tips To Keep Your Posture From Hurting You, on YouTube
Read Our Blog – How Can I Improve My Posture For A Healthy Back
Contact Us Today!
Is your posture causing your back pain? Contact us today to find out. We’ll provide you with the treatment you need so you can get back to your pain-free life. Getting better doesn’t have to take months and can be quite easy when you’re guided by a skilled physical therapist. What are you waiting for? Schedule an appointment today!
Tags: back pain relief, houghton physical therapy, poor posture, posture, improve your posture, back pain, Natural treatment
