Maintain Good Posture Through Proper Body Mechanics

Although we might not take it seriously, but the way we move in our everyday activities matters so much in the overall aspect of our health. Also called as body mechanics, this includes the way we handle our bodies when we stand, sit, bend, lift, carry, or sleep. The back aches we usually feel are not entirely caused by physical stress, but specifically by our incorrect ways of holding ourselves.

Here’s how you can correctly perform these.

Posture

• Stand with the feet apart.
• Tuck your tailbone in while your pelvic bone slightly inclines forward. Rotate the pelvis to its neutral position.
• Lift your chest as your shoulders are pulled back.
• Level your chin and relax your mouth and jaw.

Standing

• Standing in one position could be painful. It is important to change your position while standing to relieve stress and improve the circulation in your body.
• While standing, check how your posture is doing. Always ask yourself if you are standing correctly from time to time.
• The surface you are standing on should be firm and level.
• If long periods of standing could not be prevented, leaning on a wall helps in reducing fatigue.

Sitting

• Make sure your buttocks are at the back of your seat. Allow a small space between your seat and the back of your knees.
• Keep your feet flat on the ground and your knees bent in a 90 degree angle.
• Lift your chest as you pull your shoulders back to the seat.
• Lift your chin to a leveled position while relaxing the mouth and jaw.

Sleeping

• It is advisable that you sleep in a firm mattress.
• Sleeping on your stomach should be avoided as well as using an oversized pillow to place your head on. These positions usually cause stress to your spine.

Our qualified doctors at Plancher Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine are willing to address any general orthopaedics inquiries. Book an appointment with us today at 212-876-5200!