When it comes to back pain and back pain relief, there are several important factors at play. And while areas like genetics and incidents like accidents or trauma can be among these factors, perhaps the largest single factor across every case of back pain in the world is a simpler one: Posture, especially while sitting.
At Apollo Chiropractic, our chiropractic services involve not only providing treatments, but also expertise on basic areas like back pain relief. Let’s go over some simple ways to check your posture and change any bad habits here, with the hopes of limiting any pain you have.
Checking Posture
You can check your posture anytime you’re sitting in a chair. Here are some basic questions to ask yourself as part of your check:
- Are you sitting in a chair that provides the proper support? Does the backrest fit comfortable with the curve of your spine?
- Are your knees at a 90-degree angle, with feet flat on the ground and your shoulders, back and buttocks up against the chair’s backrest?
- Are your shoulders hunched in a forward position, or even and relaxed?
- Is your body weight distributed equally across your hips?
- Are your knees level with the hips?
If you answered in the negative for any of these questions, chances are you’re putting more stress on your spine than you need to be. Even if you aren’t feeling back pain as a result right now, you’re at higher risk for it.
Changing Your Habits
If you decide it’s time to change some habits when it comes to posture, there are a few basic tips to follow. Start by making time every day to stand up and stretch for at least 45 minutes total throughout a given day – this is good for your back, and also stops you from sitting in the same position for too long at once. Other small breaks are advisable, especially if you notice you’re a chronic sloucher. You might also consider a change to your chair or desk if you discover this is contributing to your negative posture.
For more on sitting posture, or to learn about any of our chiropractic treatments and how they can help with back pain, speak to the pros at Apollo Chiropractic today.