Ask the Doctor

“OK Doc, how much impact does my posture have on back pain?”

The answer is: More than you might realize! One of the things we chiropractors have learned is that seemingly innocuous behaviors can cause a lot of trouble. Like inadequate posture. Do you know people who slouch, lean on the wall while standing,, or otherwise have posture less than nature intended? Oh sure, they don’t mean to hurt themselves. But research shows that poor posture can be traced to putting extra strain on: the back, neck, hips and knees to name just a few. 

Do you fail to sit up straight when working all day at your computer? Hey, we’re all guilty of it at times. Therefore I present the following 5 tips to improving your posture that may bring pain relief:

• Tip #1. Look at your daily activities with a keen eye for those that place you in awkward or unnatural positions.
• Tip #2. If you sit much of the day, make it a point to change position every 20 or 30 minutes. Stand up & stretch.
• Tip #3. Sit with your hips all the way back in the chair. Take advantage of the lumbar support.
• Tip #4. When standing, shift your weight from leg to leg. Remember the reason bar rails were invented—to make it more comfortable to stand or lean (over the bar) for long periods of time.
• Tip #5. And… consider the power of chiropractic care to keep you pain free.

In the same way your car needs regular oil change, so too does a back require an adjustment to keep running healthy.  (You knew that was coming.) Be aware that if you or someone you love has been feeling pain for more than 48 hours, please seek a chiropractor immediately. We’re only a phone a call away.

We’re here to help!