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Back Safety: Poor Posture Hurts
An unhealthy spine often starts with bad habits. Poor movement patterns and posture problems are common causes of back pain. Disk, bone, nerve, and soft tissue problems can all be affected by poor posture. They can lead to pain, stiffness, and other symptoms.
Poor posture backfires
Poor posture can cause pain. Too much slouching puts increased pressure on the disks. An excessive lumbar curve can overload and inflame the vertebrae. As a result, the back muscles may tighten or spasm to “splint” and protect the spine. This adds to the pain you feel.
Correct posture: The key to safe movement
Your spine bears your weight throughout the day. This is true whether you’re sleeping, standing, or bending. Certain positions strain your spine more than others. But by maintaining correct posture in all positions, you can reduce the stress on your spine.
To improve your standing posture, follow these steps:
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Think of the ears, shoulders, hips, and ankles as a series of dots. Now, adjust your body to connect the dots in a straight line.
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Tuck your buttocks in just a bit if you need to.
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Online Medical Reviewer:
Louise Cunningham RN BSN
Online Medical Reviewer:
Raymond Turley Jr PA-C
Online Medical Reviewer:
Thomas N Joseph MD
Date Last Reviewed:
12/1/2021
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