Recent studies have shown that at least 58.9% of American adults are living with back pain. Back pain can make going about our daily lives difficult. It can even make laying down uncomfortable, and no one likes that!
There are a lot of reasons back pain can occur. Bad posture and the negative effects of bad posture are some of the biggest ones. Fixing your posture can be the first step for correcting back pain.
But, how do you fix your posture for a healthier back? Keep reading, and we’ll help you fix your back and live a more comfortable and amazing life!
1. Fix Your Seated Posture
For many people, the reason their posture is bad is that they work on a computer all day. Our screens might be too low and we arch our necks downward to look at them, like when we use our phone, tablet, or laptop. Or, because we get tired, we relax and embrace a slouched position for hours.
Our spines will develop a curvature to them, like a shrimp. Our necks might be more forward than they should be naturally. Some people even experience pinching along their spine or shoulder blades.
Developing correct sitting posture can alleviate back pain. A correct sitting posture has your back straightened and your shoulders back. Your buttocks touch the back of your chair and, if possible, you have a pillow to support the lumbar curve in your back.
One way to do this is by creating a desk set up that has your computer or monitor high enough so you don’t have to slouch to see it. While working, you can also try to keep your ears lined up with your shoulders.
2. Learning to Stand
Instead of sitting, you can always get a standing desk. But, you need to understand what makes a good standing posture. Standing posture is important for anyone who performs manual labor or is on their feet all day.
Correct standing posture will once again have your shoulders back, just like when you’re sitting. Your head should be in line with your body like a pole is going from your head to your toes. Then, bring in your stomach and keep your feet shoulder-width apart without locking your knees.
The weight of your standing position should be on the balls of your feet. But, if you need to stand for a long time, shift your weight from one foot to another. This can help make standing for prolonged periods easier.
3. Stretching and Exercising
Another way to improve your posture is by taking a break from technology. Stepping away from your computer and taking a walk can stretch out your muscles, plus it gives your eyes a break. You can also do upper body stretches.
To do this, face a corner with your arms raised, elbows and shoulder height, and hands flat against the wall. Place one foot in front of the other and bend forward with your knees, exhaling as you lean into the corner. With your back straight and head up, there will be a stretching sensation across your chest. Stay in this position for 30 seconds, then relax your body.
4. Visiting a Chiropractor
When you’ve experienced poor posture for a long time, or begin to feel pain in your back, the best thing you can do is visit a chiropractor. These trained professionals can ease back pain. They can even help you find ways to maintain a correct posture all day.
For example, Amazing Life Chiropractic and Wellness has a chiropractor in Mill Creek that specializes in providing pain relief. Professional chiropractors will use their hands to manipulate your spine and other back muscles. This can help realign your spine or end any pinching you might feel.
Correct Your Bad Posture Today!
The negative effects of bad posture include back pain, neck pain, and spinal damage. Bad posture can make living life uncomfortable. These tips for fixing your posture can help you develop positive posture habits in any environment!
If you’re experiencing back pain or have tried to fix your posture on your own and failed, reach out to our team at Amazing Life Chiropractic and Wellness. Located in Mill Creek, WA, we want to help you live a more comfortable life. Don’t let back pain stop you from doing what you want.
Contact us today to make an appointment!