How many of you remember growing up with someone in your family always reminding you to hold your back up? Keeping your spine aligned and working on your posture is important - it should become a priority and part of your daily exercise routine.
Many of us now own a smartphone or tablet, or spend time in front of a computer. Prolonged use of these devices can have a negative impact on our posture. I'm noticing that many more people are suffering from headaches and major signs of constricted muscles in the shoulders, neck, joints, discs and more.
Over time, your posture can change the biomechanics of your body. You may already be starting to notice posture-related aches and pain in certain areas of your body. Symptoms include headaches and pain in the upper back, middle back, lower back, shoulders, arms or even legs. The damage of repetitive stress injury can be long-lasting, and in many cases irreversible if left uncorrected. Try to limit the amount of time you spend on your computer or mobile device. Even when you sit down at home or in the workplace, try to become aware of your posture and sit with your body more aligned. You can start improving your posture today!
Top Tips
• Try to limit the time you spend on your phone, computer or tablet during the working day.
• Do some simple stretches between appointments with patients.
• When using your phone to send or check text messages or browse the internet, try to raise it to eye level. This will help to keep the spine and neck more aligned.
• Be aware of your posture and remind yourself to hold your back up and keep your neck straight during treatment procedures.
• When using the computer at the reception desk, it might be an idea to place a posture mesh cushion on your chair. This will help to correct your posture and will become a comfortable addition.
• Take time to stretch more and get your blood flowing. Stand up with your back and neck straight. Take a deep breath in, then let the arms flop down to waist. Repeat this exercise six times, and try to perform the whole routine at least three times during your day. This will help your blood move and circulate into constricted areas in the upper body and head.
Remember to keep your back straight!
Written by Victoria Robertson
Dental Nurse at the Crofts Dental Practice, Epping
Qualified Health & Wellbeing therapist
Author of two self-help books:
Swimming Through the Reeds, and Grow a Perfect Day
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