You know the big things that impact your posture, such as the height of your keyboard, whether you slouch on the couch, looking down for long periods of time with a cell phone, or sitting on your wallet in your back pocket. But it’s easy to overlook the little things.
Little Things Matter When it Comes to Posture.
Your wallet fits so perfectly in your back pocket. Indeed, it can’t hurt to keep it there, right? Unfortunately, sitting on your wallet can cause postural problems, leading to pain in your back, hips, shoulders, and neck. When half of your posterior is higher than the other, your pelvis twists, the spine becomes misaligned, and your shoulders tend to slump forward. This isn’t good, but there is a simple solution: keep your wallet in the front pocket.
Now that your wallet is in the right place, it’s time to look at your feet. What kind of shoes are you wearing? Consider giving your back a break if you’re a woman wearing high heels. Tall heels put you off balance, which your body compensates for by flexing at the hips and lower spine. The forward curve in your lower back decreases, your knees are stressed, and the muscles in your back, hips, and calves tense. All of this can lead to poor posture and back pain. Switch to flats to solve the problem.
If it’s been a while since you’ve purchased a new pair of shoes, look closer at your soles. Wear and tear in this area can throw off your gait, leading to posture issues and—you guessed it—back pain. Maybe it’s time for some replacements…
Do you carry a heavy bag or purse with you? If you’re constantly carrying a heavy weight on one side of your body, you are also continually shifting to the side to compensate, which can lead to back pain and even nerve trauma. Take some time to clean out your bag, and try to alternate the side you carry it on to reduce the damage or consider a messenger-style bag.
Correcting the Damage
Life is full of little things that can lead to poor posture and pain, many of which you might not know. Consulting with Dr. Bonnie can help you better understand how your daily life affects how you sit and stand. If your posture has already been compromised or you are already experiencing back or neck pain, chiropractic care can also help to correct it. With expert guidance and a few changes, little problems can stop being a big deal.
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