9 Tips for Improving Your Posture

Good posture is essential for good muscoskeletal health. It's that simple.

If you don't maintain good posture when you move or bear weight, the muscles that support your ligaments and bones will be suffer. This can lead to joint pain caused by degenerative arthritis. Correct posture also:

• Helps keep bones and joints correctly aligned,
• Minimizes the risk of injury,
• Ensures muscles are used correctly,
• Reduces stress on the ligaments that hold spinal joints together,
• Allows muscles to work more efficiently,
• Prevents muscle fatigue, muscle strain, overuse disorders and back pain,
• Decreases abnormal wear on joint surfaces.

Some of the reasons people exhibit poor posture include stress, obesity, poor working conditions, pregnancy, weak or tight muscles, decreased flexibility and high-heeled footwear. However, you can improve your posture if you commit to making lifestyle changes and are consciously aware of how you're sitting, standing or lying down.

We at Nichols Chiropractic recognize the importance of good posture and can help you find ways to improve the way your sit, stand or lie down. Here are some tips to help you improve your posture.

Tips for Improving Your Posture

When Sitting

• Keep your feet on the floor. Use a footrest if your feet don't reach the ground.
• Keep your ankles in front of your knees. Don't cross your legs.
• Make certain there's a gap between the back of your knees and your chair.

When Standing

• Bear weight on the balls of your feet instead of your heels.
• Keep your feet shoulder-width apart.
• Pull your shoulders backward and keep your stomach tucked in.

When Lying Down

• Avoid sleeping on your stomach.
• Use a pillow between your knees if you sleep on your side and a pillow under your knees if you sleep on your back.
• Find a mattress that allows you to be comfortable when sleeping.

Do you think you have good posture or do you find that you often slouch?