HealthcorePT: How Posture Affects Back & Neck Pain

Improve Your Posture At Home

PRAYER STRETCH While in a crawl position, slowly lower your buttocks towards your feet until a stretch is felt along your back and/or buttocks. Stretches Back www.simpleset.net Try this movement if you are experiencing back pain EXERCISE OF THE MONTH

There are ways that you can improve your posture at home, as well. Here are several strategies that are typically helpful: • Try to stand tall whenever you are standing or walking. Hold your head high and square your shoulders, but more importantly work on being the tallest version of yourself. Hunching over is the leading cause of poor posture. • Use support when you sit to keep your posture correct. Lumbar support in office chairs and car seats will help a bit, but for improved posture you may need to add additional cushioning that will help you keep your back straight. • Be mindful of how you lift heavy objects. Keep your shoulders square and your chest forward. When lifting something that is over 50 lbs it is important to take extra care. Lead with your hips and try to keep the weight close to your body. Lifting something improperly can lead to injury to your neck or back, which may make proper posture uncomfortable. What can Good Posture do for you? There are a lot of benefits of having good posture. Aside from saying goodbye to neck or back pain, improving your posture can provide several unexpected benefits to your lifestyle and personal well-being. Here are a few of the additional benefits of having good posture: • Proper posture creates quality exercise for your core and back • Improved respiratory health • Added protection for your organs, bones, joints and muscles • Reduced risk of arthritis If you are experiencing chronic neck and back pain, there is a good chance that it could be related to your posture. Contact your physical therapist to learn more about how you can take steps to start improving your posture today. For more information about overcoming back and neck pain, call Healthcore Physical Therapy today!

HEALTHY RECIPE

Ratatouille Dip

tomatoes • 1 small eggplant, cubed • 1 small zucchini, cubed • 1 small yellow squash, cubed • 1 small red bell pepper, chopped • 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves • ½ tsp garlic powder • ½ tsp ground pepper • ½ cup grated Parmesan • 8 oz pita chips

INGREDIENTS • 1 (14.5 oz) can crushed

INSTRUCTIONS Stir together tomatoes, eggplant, zucchini, summer squash, and bell pepper in a 4-quart slow cooker. Cover and cook on High for 1 hour. Stir in thyme, garlic powder, and ground pepper. Turn to Low and cook for 30 minutes more. Using a potato masher, crush the vegetable mixture to a chunky consistency. Stir in Parmesan. Stir occasionally while serving with pita chips.

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