If you want an example of good posture, just look at a young child – their back shows a graceful ‘S’ curve and their movements are easy and effortless. Unfortunately, as we get older, bad habits such as slouching and inactivity cause muscle fatigue and tension that ultimately lead to poor posture. Dr Adam Meredith from North Sydney Spine and Health says that the complications of poor posture include back pain, spinal dysfunction, joint degeneration, rounded shoulders and a potbelly.
Adam says you can improve your posture and spinal health by making a few lifestyle adjustments. He added that he has many years of successful experience in poor posture treatment for children in North Sydney.
Poor posture symptoms can include:
Potbelly
Bent knees when standing or walking
Head that either leans forward or backward
Back pain
Body aches and pains
Muscle fatigue
Headache.
Rounded shoulders
Unfortunately Adam has seen a change over the years in how early young children develop poor posture. It is now not uncommon to see poor posture as early as 6 or 7 years old. Children are not physically moving as much as they used to, with out door activities being replaced with indoor activities such as computer games and watching DVD’s.
Adam treats children with poor posture through gently stretches, gentle manipulations, reflex points and advice.
Adam loves treating children, as they respond quickly to therapy, with their postures returning back to their natural healthy states.
At North Sydney Spine and Health Adam believes that educating children to listen to their body is a positive step forward to prevent future pain and problems. He tells youngsters that good posture feels effortless, which is why traditional ‘good posture’ suggestions like throwing your shoulders back and sticking out your chest may feel uncomfortable too. Instead, listen to your body. Make minor adjustments while standing and sitting. Which position feels the easiest and most comfortable?
By educating children that concentrating on other activities (such as work, tv, video games) can direct attention away from any feelings of physical discomfort. Get into the habit of regularly tuning in to your body. If you feel muscle tension or fatigue, move into another position.
As part of his poor posture treatment in North Sydney, Adam makes the following suggestions as great guidelines to follow
Avoid sitting in soft, squashy chairs.
Use lumbar rolls to support your lower back when sitting in regular chairs or driving the car.
Switch to ergonomic chairs in the office or for any activity that requires you to sit for long periods of time.
Make sure your mattress is supportive enough to keep your spine straight when lying on your side.
Use a pillow that supports your neck.
Keep your back straight and use your thigh muscles when lifting heavy weights
Call Adam today at his clinic so you can get instant immediate attention.