It’s hard to argue that we have become a generation of sitters. By decreasing the amount we move each day, we have increased the severity of poor posture and in turn, its negative effects on our health. From sitting at desks to driving instead of walking, and even playing video games may lead to incorrect posture, but that doesn’t mean it can’t be corrected.
Posture is the position in which we hold our bodies while standing, sitting or lying down. When your posture is poor this can increase pressure on your spine and contribute to tension, soreness, headaches, back pain and fatigue.
Australian adults, on average, spend an estimated five hours per day sitting with a quarter of the population sitting for more than eight hours per day. This time sitting and hunching over a desk or on the couch can add pressure to the spine.
It does take discipline to correct poor posture, but there’s no doubt the benefits are well worth the effort.
Here are a few tips that can help you correct and maintain proper posture:
- Pay attention to the way you sit at home, in the work place and when you’re out and about. Keep your shoulders back and avoid hunching or slouching at your desk. Sit back in your chair and make sure your back is well-supported by the chair.
- Practice correct lifting and carrying techniques which include, keeping the object as close to your body as you can, when space permits bend at the knees instead of the waste to lessen the strain on your back, use both hands and slowly stand up.
- When sitting for long periods of time, be sure to take breaks by either walking or stretching.
- The Straighten Up app, developed by the ACA is your pocket chiropractor designed to help everyday Australian like you maintain and improve your spinal health. Use the app to set yourself reminders and receive notifications about sitting right, stretching, improving posture and even staying hydrated.
The app also contains the Locate a Chiropractor feature to find your local ACA chiropractor for more information on how you can improve your postural fitness and implement healthy practices into your daily routine.
For more information on Spinal Health Week 2019 visit spinalhealthweek.com.au
‘Are You Ready For Life’ is the theme for Spinal Health Week this year. Spinal Health Week is a health initiative of the ACA and is taking place on 20-26 May 2019. #ReadyForLife
