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When you were a kid, your parents may have told you not to slouch. It turns out that mom and dad had a point. Bad posture isn’t just a question of appearance. It takes a negative toll on your health, causing back pain and a slew of other issues. Find out why good posture matters and how to improve yours here.

The Impact of Posture

Your spine is composed of bony vertebrae, precisely stacked on top of one another. Good posture maintains vertebral alignment and the natural curve of the spine. This reduces wear and tear on the spine and alleviates stress on surrounding ligaments and muscles responsible for stabilizing the spine.

Poor posture can lead to a multitude of problems. Research shows that slouching increases the likelihood of back pain related to herniated discs, for example. Bad posture can also cause incontinence and constipation because of increased abdominal pressure. It even impedes digestion and causes heartburn.

Tips for Good Posture

back painPracticing good posture will help you avoid such issues. This encompasses both dynamic posture, when moving, and static posture when sitting. When walking, focus on putting your shoulders back and holding your chin up. Imagine you have an imaginary string pulling on the top of your head. Wear flat shoes, since heels can force your weight forward and exacerbate misalignment. 

When sitting, keep your feet flat on the floor with your chair height adjusted so that your thighs are parallel to the floor. If you're using a computer, keep the monitor an arm's length away. You may want to invest in posture aides like a lumbar support pillow or ergonomic desk chair. Stand up every twenty minutes to move around and loosen tension in the back.

 

Nobbe Chiropractic Clinic of Columbia, IL, offers comprehensive chiropractic care to help you overcome problems related to bad posture. They have been serving the community since 1976 and are dedicated to providing patients with high-quality treatments and preventive care. Visit their website to review their services, from neck and back pain treatment to sports injury solutions. For an appointment with a chiropractor, call (618) 281-4000.

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