Over 80% of Americans deal with back pain at least once in their lives, so it’s important to know how to avoid it.
Poor posture is one of the leading contributors to back pain. Posture refers to how we position ourselves while standing, sitting, or going about the daily tasks in our lives. Good posture involves more than just standing up straight; it facilitates the proper alignment of body parts by distributing muscle tension throughout the body.
The Effects of Poor Posture on Health
Bad posture isn’t something people do consciously. It’s a result of years of poor habits and is evident in many adults. It also causes several health issues, such as:
- Neck, back, and shoulder pain
- Decreased flexibility
- Wear and tear of the spine, making it fragile and prone to injuries
- A misaligned musculoskeletal system
- Poor joint movement
- Issues with balance and increased risk of falling
- Digestive problems
- Breathing difficulties
Tips for Improving Your Posture
As with any habit, good posture can be learned through practice. Here are some tips to help you get started:
· Don’t Slouch!
Most of us are guilty of slouching when standing up or sitting. This strains the muscles, joints, and bones that hold the backbone in place. It also puts pressure and stress on the spine, and even makes it harder for your intestines and lungs to function smoothly because they’re not positioned optimally.
· Stand Up Tall!
Straightening up and standing tall will make you look slimmer and work wonders for your spine. Stand with your knees straight, belly tucked in, and shoulders held upright.
· Lift With Your Knees!
When lifting heavy objects, maintain proper posture to avoid injuring your spine and lower back. Keep your back upright while bending at the knees to lift heavy objects. This reduces back stress, shifting it to the knees.
· Get Rid Of Belly Fat
Maintaining a healthy weight is one of the keys to good posture. Extra weight around your belly and stomach areas weakens the abdominal muscles. It also causes problems for the spine and the pelvic floor, leading to back pain and other musculoskeletal issues.
· Stay Active!
Any exercise that helps you stay active and in proper shape is good for your posture. But some specifically target good posture. These include tai chi, yoga, and other activities that focus on body awareness and strengthen the core (the muscles around your abdomen, pelvis, and back).
· Switch It Up!
Staying in one position for too long can result in a bad posture. Switch positions often to avoid stiffness in a particular part of the body. If you’ve been sitting at a desk for too long, get up and walk around for a few minutes to get the kinks out. Stretch your muscles every now and then to help relieve the tension that tends to build-up.
Ask For Help from the Experts
Houston Neurosurgery & Spine is a prominent neurosurgery center in Houston that offers expert solutions to relieve painful conditions of the spine. We provide the latest and the least invasive procedures for neck and back problems such as shoulder pain, herniated or bulging discs, spinal cord injuries and sciatica. Call us today at 832.522.8500 to schedule your appointment with our spine specialist Houston.