Most people were nagged by their parents to sit/stand up straight at a
young age, but were there any merit for their annoying comments? The
short answer is YES!
Our bodies have stresses placed on them every day and our posture
determines how our bodies functions and adapts to these stresses. Our
bodies are constantly adapting to change and the stresses that we place
on it. These adaptations can lead to dysfunctions in the body and
increase the rate at which wear and tear occurs. Poor posture has been
linked to tension type headaches, scoliosis, shoulder, and neck &
back pain. Poor posture can also lead to impaired organ function, such
as decreased lung capacity.
In a healthy spine there are 3 curves; one in the neck, the mid back
and in the low back. These curves support our spine by absorbing some of
the strain placed on the spine. However an increase in any of these
spinal curves can cause dysfunction. Three common postural dysfunctions
are sway back posture, increase in the thoracic curve (kyphosis), and
forward head carriage. All of these dysfunction place undue strain and
can damage the surrounding soft tissue such as muscles, ligaments,
tendons and intervertebral discs.
The ideal seated posture you should have your feet flat on the floor, your knees at 90, your shoulders relaxed with your wrists and elbows supported and your spine should be straight. Your computer should be at eye level to help prevent forward head lean.
Good posture is important however it is not enough, our bodies are
made to move and they require movement to stay healthy. If you have an
office job and have to sit down for extended periods most days, try
having micro breaks every 30 minutes to an hour. Alternatively a
standing desk is a great option to keep you from staying in the one
posture for an extended period of time. If you feel that your
workstation or home office needs a revamp Ergoport
have you covered. Ergoport have a show room located right next door our
clinic, fit with all your home and office ergonomics needs with trials
available.
If you have any questions on posture or are suffer from any of the previously mentioned symptoms come in and see us or book an appointment today on 02 9922 6116 or visit our clinic at “Walker House’, Level 3, Suite 304, 161 Walker Street in North Sydney for more information.
By Patrick Lind
*DISCLAIMER: This discussion does not provide medical advice. The
information, including but not limited to, text, graphics, images and
other material contained in this discussion are for informational
purposes only. The purpose of this discussion is to promote broad
consumer understanding and knowledge of various health topics. It is not
intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis
or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other
qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding
a medical condition or treatment and before undertaking a new health
care regimen, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay
in seeking it because of something you have read in this blog.
