Many people report pain and discomfort in the neck and back region. While there may be several reasons for the discomfort, one of the most common (and underestimated) is poor posture. In our daily lives, it’s not uncommon to fall into a hunched or slouched position while sitting or standing. However, prolonged sessions of poor posture can wreak havoc on your spine and cause tightness and tenderness that can hinder your mobility on a day-to-day basis.
Luckily, changing your posture for the better is achievable with some simple yet effective exercises and habits. Here are some of the top posture-improving tips from our team at Chiropractic Physicians:
Take Breaks Often: One of the best things you can do for your body is listening to its cues. For example, if you feel stiffness or pain after sitting or standing too long, be sure to stretch and move around a little and pay attention to how your body feels, especially in the neck and shoulder region. If possible, alternate between standing and sitting to encourage blood flow.
Use Ergonomics and Posture-Friendly Devices: If you spend most of your workday sitting at a desk or computer, it is well worth the investment to buy ergonomic chairs and posture-friendly devices. In addition, if your work involves standing for prolonged periods, there are a few posture-friendly harnesses that will help you stand up straight and reduce the pressure on your neck and shoulders.
Strengthen Your Core: This tip is beneficial for your body overall, not just your posture! If you notice difficulty in standing up straight and holding the position for long periods of time, you may want to consider doing a few exercises regularly to strengthen your core. Plank variations and bicycle crunches are great equipment-free core-strengthening movements.
Chiropractic Check-Up: If you’ve been actively trying to improve your posture but are still feeling tense, it’s best to make an appointment for a chiropractic check-up. A chiropractic physician will be able to take an in-depth look at what is going on and potentially make some adjustments for your comfort.
Chiropractic Physicians can help diagnose, treat, restore, and strengthen your body through our various massage therapy and chiropractic treatments. Now’s the time to put your posture first; Schedule an appointment with one of our primary care providers in Burien, Kent, Federal Way, or Tacoma today!