Too Much Standing?

As a patient at our chiropractic practice, you’ve probably heard us talk about how important it is to maintain proper posture. Whether you are sitting, standing, walking, or even laying down, good posture helps us to position ourselves so the least amount of strain possible is put on our muscles and ligaments.

Additionally, proper posture helps joints and bones to be in correct alignment, which decreases the wear put on joint surfaces. It also helps prevent back pain and muscle strain and reduces the stress put on ligaments, which allows the muscles to work more efficiently. When you maintain proper posture, you reduce your risk of back pain and injury.

Stand With Proper Posture

If you’ve been following our blog, you know the importance of taking regular stretch breaks throughout the work day and to avoid over-sitting. But what about those that have the opposite problem, and spend the majority of the day standing? Here are our tips on standing with proper posture.

• Start by keeping most of your weight on the balls of your feet

• Stand with your feet approximately shoulder width-apart and your knees slightly bent

• Let your arms hang loose and naturally at your sides

• Stand up straight and tall and your shoulders pulled slightly back, neck long, and chin lifted just a bit

• Keep your core engaged and tight

• Make sure your head is level with your earlobes in line with your shoulders. Try to avoid pushing your head forward, backward, or sideways.

• If you must stand for a long period of time, shift your weight from your toes to your heels and from one foot to another

It’s also important to give your feet and legs a break and just have a seat. For more tips on proper standing posture, just ask during your next appointment (click here to request an appointment!) We can also share proper posture exercises and tips for you to do at home.

Do you have any tips to help maintain proper posture while standing? Let us know in the comments!