Dos and Don’ts for Improving Posture

​From a young age, we’re told to sit up straight and walk tall to promote healthy spines and proper posture. Even so, many adults still have incorrect posture which often leads to back pain and recurring problems.
 
Unsure about your posture? Here are some helpful dos and don’ts that will have you walking tall:

​DO sit with your back straight and your legs firmly planted on the floor. If you’re at a desk, ensure that your arms sit at a 90 degree angle, and that your monitor is slightly higher than eye level to keep your head from pointing downward.
 
DON’T sit with your legs crossed, as this causes the spine to stay in a slightly bent position for long periods of time and can cause long-term issues. Additionally, this is bad for circulation in the legs.
 
DO keep shoulders back and chest out, with your chin forward. A good way to remember this is to imagine that there’s a string at the top of your head, pulling your spine, back, neck, and head upward.
 
DON’T sit with your wallet, phone, or anything else in your back pocket. This causes a shift in the spine to compensate for the extra space needed to sit comfortably. When done repeatedly, this can cause long-term, painful effects.
 
DO utilize the benefits of chiropractic to have adjustments made to the back and spine and correct any issues. Regular chiropractic can help keep posture straight, strong, and healthy.
 
DON’T sit for extended periods of time. Try to get out of your seat for a couple of minutes every hour or half hour. Stretch your muscles, take a walk, and remember the proper way to sit when you need to.
 
DO strengthen your core through yoga and pilates. These exercises are beneficial for not only keeping the body lean and fit, but also keeping the back and abdomen strong which is an asset to great posture.
 
To better improve posture, visit Bodylab for regular chiropractic or massage. That, in addition to the tips mentioned above, will make an impactful difference in your spine and back health. Call us at 905 228 3130 or use our online form to book your appointment.