You’ve probably been told to sit up straight at some point in life. But, can sitting and standing with good posture really impact your health? Especially when it comes to your back, neck, and spinal health, the answer is a resounding yes!
Keep reading to learn more about the link between posture and back pain, along with orthopedic tips for better spine health.
How Does Posture Affect Back Pain?
Posture refers to how you hold your body. Poor posture (whether you’re rounding your lower back, hunching forward, or sitting in a twisted position) can contribute to numerous forms of back pain, as it dramatically increases the pressure on your back muscles, spinal structures, intervertebral discs, ligaments, and tendons. It also restricts blood flow to your back and spine, inhibiting the body’s ability to regenerate damaged tissue.
Poor posture can worsen or cause various types of back pain and spinal conditions, including:
- Back strains and sprains
- Slipped, ruptured, and herniated discs
- Nerve compression, including sciatica
- Spinal osteoarthritis
- Spinal stenosis (narrowing of the spinal canal)
Orthopedic Tips to Improve Your Spine Health
To improve your spine health, start by making your posture a priority. Keep your spine in a straight, aligned position with your head over your shoulders, your shoulders back, and a natural curve in the lower back. If you struggle to be mindful of your posture, write it on a sticky note and keep it on your computer or at your desk.
Additionally, if you spend most of the workday sitting, make sure your desk setup facilitates good posture. Invest in a comfortable chair with excellent lumbar support, and position your screen at eye level. Take frequent breaks from sitting (at least once or twice per hour) and consider using a standing desk to prevent long sedentary periods.
Improving your posture is a simple, attainable way to improve your spine health. For expert orthopedic treatment, schedule an appointment with Dr. Higgins at Hernando Orthopaedic today.