You may not consciously think about it, but your body is fighting a continuous battle with gravity. The force of gravity puts stress on muscles, joints, and ligaments, something that correct posture counteracts by distributing gravity evenly throughout the body. It prevents excess stress on the spine and all your body’s connected parts to prevent strain, pain, fatigue, and overuse issues. It also reduces your chances of injury. Use these physical therapy tips to improve your posture and enjoy better health.

Helpful Advice to Improve Your Posture Right Away

1. Stand Correctly

Practice healthy standing positions and train yourself to notice when you are slouching or putting too much weight on one foot. Keep your weight evenly through entire foot with your knees unlocked (soft knees). Ensure your legs are about shoulder-width apart, then let your arms hang at your sides. Pull your stomach in while lifting your chest up and keeping your shoulders down and back. Think of a string connected from your foot arches through your legs and up the spine to the crown of the head; now lift that string up.  With a little practice, standing in a beneficial way will become second nature.

2. Exercise Often

Find an exercise routine you love and stick to it in addition to getting up and moving periodically if you work at a desk. Your body is meant to move, so consistent activity encourages healthy circulation and prevents muscle and joint fatigue related to remaining in one position. Also look for physical therapy exercises designed to improve posture to further strengthen the muscles.

3. Sit Properly

Pay attention to how you sit, particularly if you have a desk job. Avoid crossing your legs, and instead sit with your feet flat on the floor with your ankles in front of your knees. Sit up straight so your shoulders and hips are aligned and adjust your chair to support your lower and middle back. Make adjustments whenever you start hunching over, leaning to one side, or craning your neck.

4. Sleep on Your Side

Start sleeping on your side using a supportive pillow as well as one between your knees to take pressure off your joints. Refrain from sleeping on your stomach, as this flattens the spine instead of supporting its natural curve. If you sleep on your back, place the second pillow under the knees to avoid waking up feeling sore.

5. Use Posture-Related Tools

Consider simple physical therapy tools and accessories that promote healthy posture, such as supportive shoes that distribute weight evenly. High-heeled shoes can change your spinal alignment because they throw off your center of gravity. Use tools such as footrests, ergonomic office chairs, and portable lumbar supports. Also make certain your glasses or contact lens prescription is up to date so you’re not reaching forward and straining your neck and shoulder muscles to see your computer screen.

Help yourself maintain healthy posture with physical therapy services from Hands-On Health Massage & Physical Therapy. The center serves High Point, NC, and the surrounding areas, providing massage therapy and other pain management services. Call (336) 906-2040 today to make an appointment or learn more about their restorative services online.