With the digitalisation trend, studies have indicated that we are becoming less active and spending more time on devices. This can lead to posture problems which may only cause tiredness and discomfort at first. However, if left uncorrected, it can develop into severe pain and impact our wellbeing.
Let us look at several common posture problems and can be done to help:
Sitting Posture
Many of us have jobs that require sitting at the office desks for an extended period. A common posture issue associated with this is slouching with a poking chin where the neck is not held straight. Over time this can place strain and tension on muscles, developing into a pain in the shoulders, neck, and back.
Correcting your sitting posture is the start. Make sure that you are not sitting too low, and ensure that your computer screen is set at the right height. Invest in a comfortable chair with adjustable settings to ensure that you are supported in the correct position. Exercises that can help include neck stretches, back extensions, and getting up to walk around every hour.
Texting Posture
In addition to staring at a computer screen all day, nowadays we are also tied to various devices such as mobile phones and tablets. Digital connectivity has provided us with an excellent means of convenient communication; however, the modern-day overuse of devices is causing posture problems.
We hear increasing complaints of tiredness and pain stemming from the ‘texting’ posture – hunching over to look down on devices. This causes a rounded upper back and contributes to shoulder and neck pain.
Try to sit at a desk or use a laptop table to keep your device screen as directly in front of your eyes as possible, rather than looking ‘down’. If you feel stiffness in your neck, gently lengthen your neck upwards and consider strengthening exercises such as pull-ups and chest stretches.
Standing Posture
If you have a job that requires long hours of standing, there is also potential for posture issues, such as leaning on one leg, which puts uneven pressure on one side of your lower back and hip. While this might feel comfortable at the time, the muscle imbalances can cause strain in the pelvis area, as well as a curved spine.
Focus on keeping your weight evenly distributed when standing, and if possible, use a stool to take the pressure off your feet. Gentle exercises such as moving your hips in a circular motion during break time can help ease cramps and tiredness as well.
If you have been suffering the effects of ill posture for some time, a professional can help you get back on track and ease painful symptoms. Here at Empowering Wellness, we are passionate about health and wellbeing, offering a range of holistic services, including Chiropractic, Massage, Acupuncture and Natural Therapies.
Get in touch to see how we can help today.
