The Importance of Good Posture in the Office

 The Importance of Good Posture in the Office

We are usually on our best behavior at home, eating healthy, exercising, and getting plenty of rest. However, many of us do not carry these practices over to the workplace, instead snacking on junk food, remaining sedentary all day, and working more hours than we should. Sedentary practices in particular are harmful because they often lead to serious health issues. Getting up and moving around periodically and exhibiting good posture when seated and walking have positive effects.

What is Good Posture?

Proper posture makes a person appear confident but it also helps the body function properly and can prevent back pain. Slouching and stooping make it difficult for ligaments and muscles to balance the body, which may result in headaches, back pain, and other issues. Good posture helps the back maintain its natural curves, stabilizing and strengthening the spine.

When standing, pull in the abdomen, relax the shoulders and pull them back, and let hands hang at the sides naturally. Keep your feet hip distance apart and balance weight evenly. Relax the knees and do not tilt the head because this causes the spine to shift. Practice good standing posture by placing the buttocks, head, and shoulder blades against a wall, limiting the amount of space between the wall and the back to the thickness of your hand. Maintain this posture when walking around the office.

Spending most of the day seated does not eliminate the ability to practice good posture. Select an office chair that allows both feet to rest flat on the floor while knees and hips are level. Sit back in the chair to ensure that it supports the curve in the lower back. Stretch the top of the head to the ceiling and tuck in the chin slightly. Relax the shoulders and keep the neck and upper back straight while working.

Why is Good Work Posture Important?

Exhibiting good posture prevents writing, typing, and other repetitive tasks from causing chronic health issues. Good typing posture reduces pressure on inactive back and shoulder muscles and gets blood flowing to active muscles. Slouching and keeping arms away from the sides can lead to joint and muscle pain and loss of feeling in the arms.

Even one day of exhibiting bad posture at work can cause issues. Chiropractic care is a non-invasive way to treat back, shoulder, and arm pain resulting from poor workplace posture. Through spinal manipulation, chiropractic treatments realign the body to make pain and numbness disappear. Patients can prolong the effects by maintaining good posture.