Johnson PT. How Posture Affects Back & 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 guidedthroughaseriesofstretchesandstrengthbuildingexercisesthat canhelpyoubegin trainingyourbody topracticebetterposture, thereby reducing your back and neck pain. Ofcourse,therearewaysthatyoucan improveyourpostureathome,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 onbeingthetallestversionofyourself.Hunchingover isthe leading cause of poor posture. • Use support when you sit to keep your posture correct. Lumbar support inofficechairsandcarseatswillhelpabit,butfor improved postureyoumayneedtoaddadditionalcushioningthatwillhelpyou keep your back straight. • Bemindfulofhowyou liftheavyobjects.Keepyourshoulderssquare andyourchest forward.When liftingsomethingthat isover50 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

leadto injurytoyourneckorback,whichmaymakeproperposture uncomfortable. There are a lot of benefits of having good posture. Aside from saying goodbyetoneckorbackpain, improvingyourposturecanprovideseveral 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.

Call Johnson PT at 970.564.0311 to learn how we can help you!

Exercise Essentials

We’re The Best of Cortez 2019!

WALL PLANKS Position yourself with your forearms against a wall as shown. Keep your trunk engaged, making sure to not let your lower back arch. Hold for 10 seconds, then rest. Repeat exercise throughout the day to strengthen your core and back muscles.

Thank you to everyone who voted us at The Best Physical Therapy of Cortez 2019 by The Journal! We want to thank our amazing therapists and front office staff for all of their dedication and hard work!

Exercisescopyrightof

www.simpleset.net

Made with FlippingBook Annual report