Many of us go through our daily routine with little to no thought about how our actions and movements impact our long-term health.
For example, have you ever thought about how much time you spend sitting?
Whether it’s at work, in the car, on public transit, or watching TV – we spend a lot of time sitting down. We are a nation of sitters and it can take its toll on our health. Almost all of us will suffer from back pain at some point in our lives. In fact, low back pain (LBP) is the leading cause of disability worldwide.
Not maintaining good posture and adequate back support can add strain to muscles and put stress on the spine. Over time, the stress of poor posture can change the anatomical characteristics of the spine, leading to the possibility of constricted blood vessels and nerves, as well as problems with muscles, discs, and joints. All of these can be major contributors to back and neck pain, as well as headaches, fatigue, and breathing.
How do you know if you have bad posture?
• When you look at yourself straight on in the mirror, one shoulder looks higher than the other.
• If you stand with your back against the wall, you have to push your head back to get it to touch the wall.
What contributes to bad posture?
• Poor sitting and standing habits.
• Obesity.
• Poor work environment.
• Pregnancy.
• Weak core muscles (abs).
• High-heeled shoes.
• Tight muscles; decreased flexibility.
There are a number of exercises and stretches that can help improve posture and spinal health. Talk to your health care professional for more information.
