CPTE_How Posture Affects Back and Neck Pain

What Can Good Posture Do For You?

Working with a physical therapist to improve your posture is a great way to overcome chronic neck and back pain. In physical therapy, you will be guided through a series of stretches and strength building exercises that can help you begin training your body to practice better posture, thereby reducing your back and neck pain. Ofcourse, thereareways thatyoucan 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 yourshoulders,butmore importantlyworkon being the tallestversionofyourself.Hunching over is the leading cause of poor posture. •Usesupportwhenyousit tokeepyourposture 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 withyourhipsand try tokeep theweightclose to your body. Lifting something improperly can lead to injury to your neck or back, which may make proper posture uncomfortable. 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 learnmoreabouthowyoucan take steps to start improving your posture today.

VEGAN SWEET POTATO QUESADILLAS

INGREDIENTS • 5 tbsp olive oil

• 1 cup black beans, cooked or canned • 2-3 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped • salt & pepper to taste • 6 gluten-free tortillas • 1 cup vegan cheese, grated

• 1 sweet potato, grated • 1 tsp smoked paprika • 1/2 tsp chili (optional) • 1/2 tsp cumin (optional) • 2 handful of baby spinach

DIRECTIONS Filling: Heat 1-2 tbsp of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add grated sweet potato and roast for 30 seconds, then add spices and stir to combine. Once the pan is sizzling, add a little water, then cover the pan and reduce to low heat. Cook for 6 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add baby spinach, and cook for 2 minutes until sweet potato is tender and cooked through. Stir in beans, corn, parsley and cook for 1 minute longer until cooked through. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Quesadillas: Heat another non-stick pan with medium heat and brush with some oil. Spread 3 tbsp of the filling evenly over half of 1 tortilla, leaving a 1/2 inch border. Cover filling with grated cheese and fold over the empty side of the tortilla, pressing down carefully by using a spatula, so that it sticks. Cook for 2-3 minutes, flip and cook from the other side until golden and crispy. Repeat with remaining filling and as many tortillas as needed (about 4-6, depending on the exact size). Transfer quesadillas to a cutting board, slice, and then serve.

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