Read on to learn how to recognize symptoms of poor sitting posture before habits that can cause serious symptoms become established.
Why Pay Attention To Sitting Posture?
Good posture does for your body what alignment does for your car. It helps prevent pain and injury to muscles and joints and can even make you feel better about yourself, sleep soundly, and have more energy.
As children, we hate being nagged to sit with our spines straight. But, as we grow older, we learn to appreciate the importance of such advice.
How Do I Know If I’m Properly Seated?
The Mayo Clinic offers illustrated tips for keeping your back properly aligned while working at a computer or performing other detailed activities at a table or desk for extended periods.
Basically, you should check that your:
- feet are on the floor
- ankles are in front of knees
- thighs are parallel to the floor
- backs of knees are just beyond the edge of the chair
- chin is slightly tucked toward your body, head extended toward ceiling
- upper back and neck are comfortably straight
- shoulders are relaxed, not pulled upward or back, or held stiffly.
If your chair is not of the special type that supports the small of your back, place a rolled towel or small pillow there for support.
Mirror Magic And Phone Alerts
Many of us need to do periodic posture checks; it’s easy to fall into a slump. Check your profile in a mirror to see if you are seated correctly. Set your phone to signal you to check your position every thirty minutes or so.
What Symptoms May Be Caused By Slouching?
Slouching can cause various side effects, and some of them may be things we wouldn’t expect.
Back pain, and pain in other areas of the body is the number one complaint related to slouching, but other side effects may result as well, such as:
- muscle and mental fatigue
- generalized aches and pains
- poor digestion
- poor lung function
- misaligned spine
- headache and jaw pain
- nerve constriction
- insufficient circulation
How Can I Repair Damage to My Back Caused by Poor Posture?
Several simple yoga poses can work wonders for strengthening and stretching muscles weakened by slouching:
Child’s Pose is one that’s great for both back muscles and to relax the mind. Spine Universe offers a few more options, and explains why yoga helps heal painful backs.
Proper posture while seated is more important than many realize. If you’re suffering from any of the symptoms listed above, now is the time to try out these tips and resolve to improve the status of your spine and the condition of your overall health.
If you need orthopedic or sports medicine help or treatment, the professionals at VCOM Sports and Osteopathic Medicine are here to help. Visit us online to schedule an appointment today!
