Tips to Maintain Excellent Posture!

Did your mom ever tell you to sit up tall? Say, “Thank you!” Posture is essential for good health. Most of us have bad posture habits when it comes to sitting, driving, working, and most everything else.

Good posture is a the correct alignment of body parts supported by proper muscle tension against gravity. Posture supports healthy bone structure, proper system functioning, balance, and movement.

Our vital nervous, circulatory, and respiratory systems require space to operate. When we slouch we close down these passageways and decrease the body’s ability to perform healthy functions. For instance, I have a few patients with breathing difficulties (asthma, COPD, emphysema). We do chest opening and posture exercises and from the beginning of the visit to the end, they are able to increase their chest expansion over DOUBLE! Think of all the difference that makes to each breath!

Using good posture keeps bones and joints in correct alignment so that our muscles move evenly, decreasing the abnormal wearing of joint surfaces that could result in arthritis and joint pain. This also minimizes ligament stress, which can reduce your risk of injury. When muscles work right, the body uses less energy, preventing fatique. And, finally, correct alignment reduces muscle strain, overuse disorders, and prevents pain.

Reduce stress and anxiety, especially at work and driving. Let your shoulders drop evenly and lift your head tall. Use your back rest in your work chair or head rest in your car. Get adjusted by Dr. Kuty to reduce joint fatique and stress. Stretch daily to keep muscles flexible and relaxed. Avoid tight clothes and high heeled shoes. And, pay attention! Write yourself a reminder post-it to say SIT UP and stick it on your computer or dashboard. Eventually we all turn into our mothers right? You may even find yourself telling others to, “Sit up tall!”