A Chiropractor’s Tips for Improving Posture

Have you been suffering from tight muscles in your neck and shoulders? Are you experiencing frequent headaches? Is it a struggle to raise your arms above your head?

If your answer to any of these questions is “yes”, then you’re probably wondering what’s causing this pain. Maybe you are rethinking that last workout you did or you’re trying to remember if you twisted your neck the wrong way. However, the answer most likely lies with something that isn’t always top of mind for most of us: posture.

Our posture, or the way we typically position ourselves when standing up or sitting down, is directly correlated with many aspects of our health. Unfortunately, many of us get used to slouching as we walk or hunching over a computer 8 hours a day. As as result, our muscles get used to this position and tighten up, making it harder for us to correct our posture in the long run.

In order to improve your health, both physically and mentally, working on your posture should be your first step. Read on to learn some tips for improving your posture and how a chiropractor may help you get there faster.

The Importance of Posture

As said above, good posture can have wide-ranging benefits on your health. From improved confidence to increased range of motion, having a good posture will only help improve every other aspect of your life.

If your posture isn’t ideal, then you’ll start to notice a slew of health problems arising out of it. Besides having sore muscles, your balance will be affected, your musculoskeletal system will become misaligned, and you may even experience difficulty breathing. To avoid all of these negative effects, start incorporating the following tips into your everyday routine.

Tip #1: Keep Your Shoulders Back

While keeping your shoulders back is an obvious way of ensuring good posture, it is oftentimes hard to accomplish. If your posture is already poor and you are trying to correct it by keeping your shoulders back, you may notice a bit of discomfort. This is because your muscles may have already tightened up, making it challenging for you to keep your shoulders back.

Nevertheless, you should do your best to deal with the discomfort and keep those shoulders back. Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication may help relieve some of the tension in your muscles, and over time, your body will eventually get used to the new, better position.

Tip #2: Stretch Regularly

In addition to standing tall, stretching regularly is another effective way to improve and maintain good posture. There are a number of stretches you could be doing throughout the day, and simply moving your body periodically or getting up from the desk can help keep your muscles remain limber.

Regular stretching can also help you stand tall and keep those shoulders back. Not only will your whole body reap the benefits of stretching, but you will find it much easier to maintain good posture.

Tip #3: Use Proper Lifting Techniques

Although it may not seem obvious, it’s important to practice proper lifting techniques to ensure you maintain a good posture. After you have determined that the object you want to lift isn’t too heavy as to produce a muscle spasm in your lower back, you should get yourself into the proper position.

Make sure to keep your feet flat on the floor and slowly lift by straightening your knees and hips. Avoid engaging your back as you lift, and keep the weight focused on your lower body.

Tip 4: Visit a chiropractor

If you are still struggling with correcting your posture, then it might be time to see a chiropractor. Chiropractors are medical professionals trained in manual manipulation of the musculoskeletal structure, and can help you pinpoint the exact reason for your poor posture.

After your initial visit, you will most likely receive a chiropractic adjustment, which will help realign your spine. Then, you will work with your chiropractor to perform a number of exercises and stretches to keep your body limber and restore your range of motion. Over time, you will develop a close relationship with your chiropractor as regular appointments will help you maintain your posture.

Book Your First Appointment Today!

Are you convinced that visiting a chiropractor should be your next step to improve your posture? If so, then it’s time to contact the professionals at Park Place Clinic in Vancouver, BC. Together, you will come up with a treatment plan that fits your needs and schedule.

Give us a call at 604-646-6699 or make an appointment by filling out our online contact form.