MillenniumPT.How Posture Affects Back and Neck Pain

WAYS YOU CAN IMPROVE YOUR POSTURE AT HOME

Of course, 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 learnmore about how you can take steps to start improving your posture today. If you’re suffering from neck or back pain, call your Physical Therapist at Millennium Physical Therapy to schedule your appointment today!

EXERCISE ESSENTIALS

TRY THESE EXERCISES TO IMPROVE YOUR POSTURE!

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exercises copyright of

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TANDEM WALK | WALL Standwith the fingertips of one, or both, hands resting on awall. Place the feet ‘heel to toe’ with the left foot forward. Steady yourself in this position. Step forward with the right foot, placing the heel directly in front of, and touching, the toes of the left foot. Step forward with the left foot, placing the heel directly in front of, and touching, the toes of the right foot. Repeat this sequence, moving forward down the hallway. Reverse direction, moving backward down the hallway. Repeat 5 times.

REPEAT TRUNK FLEXION | TO FLOOR Sit in a chair with good posture. Hands on thighs. Let your trunk sag toward the floor use your arms to control the movement. Let your arms dangle to the floor. Now use your arms to push yourself up. Repeat 10 times.

Learn more by visiting our website at trymillenniumpt.com or schedule your consultation by calling us today!

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