ARE YOU LIVING IN A POSTURE TRAP?
by Jodi Rarey, OSCA Director of Public and Legislative Affairs
Everywhere we are surrounded with furniture and devices that not only prevent
good posture, but in some cases may cause damage to the spine. Continuous poor posture
can lead to fatigue, irritability and muscle strain, and many "posture traps" can
be found in your home. These traps are places you retreat to for relaxation and comfort,
but in reality they may upset your normal body balance.
Many people confuse softness with comfort, and don't realize that unless a seat or mattress
is firm enough to properly support the spine, vital muscles and joints may be
strained. Sinking into your favorite chair can crowd your abdomen, compress your chest
cavity, create more pressure on the spine and ultimately hinder your body's ability to
function normally. Stiff and unyielding chairs can be damaging, too. Some school
desks are prime examples. Seats should allow the child to rest his/her feet on the floor,
with the knees at a right angle. The back of the chair should support the spine and
prevent the chest from sagging.
According to the Ohio State Chiropractic Association, there are several things you
can do to achieve a healthier sitting posture for your family. Several suggestions are:
- Invest in posture supportive chairs. Don't forget that softness and comfort are
not synonymous, and that the true test of a seat is whether you can sit in it
for long periods of time without fatigue or discomfort.
- Purchase a firm mattress. There are chiropractic mattresses that have been
engineered and designed to give good sleeping posture. If your mattress is broken
down or too soft, it is recommended that you temporarily place a piece of plywood
between your present mattress and box springs, until you buy a new mattress. Try to
remember to flip your mattress every three to four months.
- Look for "posture traps" when buying a new car. Adjustable seats, ample leg room
and firm seat cushioning will help you maintain good sitting posture. Also, look at the
design of the seat and the dashboard. Make sure the seat allows you to have
positive pressure on your lower back. If not, consider a back support or purchase
a car with an adjustable low back seat cushion. Position your seat close enough
to reach the dashboard without straining.
Your chiropractic physician is a specialist in treating health problems related
to the structure and nerve functions of your body. For more information,
contact your local chiropractic physician today.
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