Why Posture is Important

Sitting, driving, lifting, and sleeping all have an impact on your posture. Doing any of these with improper form could lead to back pain.

Dr. A. Elizabeth Blozé, physical medicine and rehabilitation specialist with Southern California Orthopedic Institute, says, "Spine and neck pain will afflict nearly 80 percent of Americans at some point in their lifetime, and one of the common causes of that pain is undoubtedly poor posture."

To better help you remain aligned, Southern California Orthopedic Institute offers the following tips to improve your posture:

• Strengthen supporting muscles. The spine is supported by two large muscle groups: the core, or abdomen, and paraspinal, or muscles that run from the neck down the length of the spine. Keeping these muscle groups strong through exercises such as crunches and sit-ups for the core, and walking, running, and spinning for the paraspinal group, will help to support the spine and improve posture.
• Align your body. A majority of a person's day is spent either standing or sitting, so great emphasis should be put on a proper posture. Keeping your hips in line with your back and standing tall will improve your posture and reduce your risk of experiencing pain in the years to come.
• Remember ergonomics. Like most people, you probably sit for many hours at a time. To help improve your posture while sitting, Dr. Blozé suggests putting something soft in the natural curves of the lower back for added support. “Sit relatively upright—try to avoid leaning forward for long periods of time,” she adds.

For women in particular, good posture is very important, says Dr. Blozé. Strengthening the core and paraspinal muscles can mean less problematic pregnancies and labor.

For more information on the treatment and prevention of back pain, call Southern California Orthopedic Institute at (877) 933-3387.

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