May is Correct Posture Month
Good posture is necessary for optimal health. Poor posture can result from daily activities like leaning over paperwork or straining to peer at the computer screen and can cause many health problems. Slouching puts additional stress on muscles and joints, which can lead to arthritis and degeneration of the joints. It can also interfere with breathing, circulation and even digestion.
Correct posture keeps bones and joints in correct alignment, causing less wear and tear on your body. When standing, it should be possible to draw a straight line along the side of your body from your ear lobe through the shoulders, hip, knee and into the middle of the ankle. From the back, your shoulders and ears, as well as your hips, should be balanced or level. Good posture keeps all parts balanced and supported. Muscles work more efficiently and require less energy; resulting in less fatigue and muscle strain.
Follow these tips from the American Chiropractic Association to improve posture:
- Sit with your knees at approximately a 90-degree to 120-degree angle.
- Position your computer monitor with the top of the screen at or below eye level.
- Keep your wrists in the neutral position while you type, not angled up or down. A wrist rest can help you to keep a more neutral wrist posture.
- Take frequent, short breaks from your work. Stretch your hands, arms, shoulders and legs.
- Find a chair that offers plenty of support to both the neck and lower back.
- Sleep on a supportive mattress. Every few months turn your mattress clockwise, or upside down, to keep body indentations to a minimum.
Chiropractors are experts at analyzing posture and spinal problems. For postural changes specific to you call Dr. Rachelle Larsen at Coastal Chiropractic Family Wellness Center (#843-CALL-DOC) today.
Read Dr. Larsen's article "May is Better Sleep Month"...