Posture is the way we sit, stand, kneel, squat or walk and is determined by the body’s structures, but can also be influenced by genetic and emotional factors.  Normal spine posture helps to reduce potential strain.  However, our modern lifestyles, combined with forces of gravity often ruin our healthy upright posture.

The habit of slouching begins in childhood when we sit in front of the television and at school desks, slouching then continues into adulthood when we sit in front of computers and use laptops.  As we become older, Osteoporosis (the thinning of the bones) and Osteoarthritis (wear and tear) often results in poor posture.  Sitting and inactivity automatically worsens our posture, making pain inevitable.

What is correct posture?

Ordinary posture is normally considered as standing erect with arms hanging loosely at the sides.  A good rule of thumb to obtain a good posture is to assume the ‘military position’ and then ease off about 10%.  It is a good idea to try and adopt this position approximately every 20 minutes as a way of improving your posture and eventually it should occur automatically.

Basically, the military position involves:

flattening your lower back against a chair or wall

rolling your shoulders back and down

tucking in your chin while you glide your head backwards

Good posture at the desk

When you work at a desk or computer, it is important to adapt your surroundings to encourage a healthy posture.  Firstly, experiment with the tilt of your chair.  Tilt your chair so that the back is higher than the front.  If your chair does not tilt, achieve the effect by using a foam wedge.  If your desk is too low for you it will promote a slumped posture.

Reading or writing may cause neck and shoulder over strain.  A writing wedge or book support can prevent this strain.  The keyboard and monitor should be directly in front of you so that you are not rotating your neck or lower back.  The monitor should be at eye level.  When typing, your fingers should rest on the keyboard with your wrists straight and elbows bent at 90 degrees and shoulders relaxed.  Always take a break after 30-40 minutes of intense work and change activity completely.

Do’s and Don’ts at the computer

Do….

sit in a good chair with arm rests if possible

use adequate back support

use a desk of appropriate height

take regular breaks to rest eyes, neck and shoulders

stand up and walk around at least once an hour

loosen neck and shoulders while sitting

relax wrists while typing

Don’t….

slouch

sit in an unsuitable chair

use a low desk or table

sit for too long at a time

tense your neck, shoulders or wrists

cross your legs

For more information on posture and good health please call Steve now on 670 332 982 and book you initial 90 minute health assessment.  Also visit www.bodyguardsapt.com for more background information and testimonials.