Posture
Posture is how we position our bodies at rest and during movement. We tend to think of posture as something static, such as sitting, but actually it refers to everything we do including walking, running, lifting, playing sports.
Some types of posture are more balanced and energy efficient than others – these are obviously preferable and are less likely to be associated with pain and stiffness.
Posture is affected by many factors including:
- The shape of our bones and joints
- Muscle tone, strength and endurance
- Mental and emotional state
- Our environment such as furniture, shoes and clothes, temperature, noise and light
We cannot do much to change the shape of our bones and joints, but we have some control over everything else on that list. Poor posture is not inevitable or permanent – there’s always something you can do to improve.
Osteopathy is a safe and effective way to start improving your posture.
Read on to learn more about how I can help or call 020 8520 5268.
Here’s an example of the effects of poor seated posture:
Sitting in a slouched position can have a variety of negative effects including impaired circulation in your legs, weakened abdominal and back muscles and stiff hips and low back.
Sitting upright with more balanced posture can reduce these effects, but it is best to keep moving and avoid being in one position for a long time.
Over time, poor posture may make you more likely to suffer from back pain, feel less flexible and more at risk of injury.
How to Improve your Posture
This will vary depending on the activity but here are a few guidelines:
- Keep your spine in a neutral position i.e:
- Avoid leaning to one side
- Avoid twisting your neck or back
- Don’t arch your back
- Don’t slump forwards
- If you’re lifting keep the weight as close to your body as possible.
- Move often! Try and change position at least every hour.
- Try doing gentle stretches every day.
- Consider Osteopathy or other manual therapies such as massage to help loosen stiff muscles and joints.
- Consider Pilates, core strengthening exercises or Alexander Technique to strengthen and retrain your body for better posture.
My Articles about Posture
- How to Work from Home without Killing your Neck & Shoulders
- How do I choose a good pillow?
- Whats the best sleeping position?
- Brugger’s Relief Position for Back Pain and Poor Posture
- Don’t sit like a shrimp
- Sit on Your Sitting Bones for Less Back Pain
- Is your TV hurting your neck?
- Stretches for Sewists with Back & Neck Pain
- Posture Tips for Sewists aka how to stop back pain
- How to Sit Properly When You Use a Laptop
- Stretch Your Upper Back, Stop Slouching
- What to Look for in your Office Chair
- What’s the Correct Height for my Screen?
- How to Sit Properly at your Computer, in 9 Easy Steps
- Do You Need a Foot Rest?
- Stretch – Easy and Relaxing Mid Back Stretch
- Stretch – Improve your Posture in 30 Seconds
Antonieta, Nadia and Sarah are a team of 3 experienced Osteopaths in Walthamstow, E17. We can help you recover from back pain, jaw problems, neck issues and much more.
To make an appointment call 020 8520 5268 or book online.
