Why Good Posture is Crucial for Your Health

Did you know that checking your smart phone too often does not only affect your posture but also your overall health? According to the American Journal of Pain Management “Posture effects and moderates every physiological function from breathing to hormonal production. Spinal pain, headache, mood, blood pressure, pulse, and lung capacity.” Poor posture has also been linked to “a trend towards greater mortality” in an article by the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society.

What is Normal Posture?
Normal posture is defined as an equilibrium in which there is no strain on the ligaments and a minimum expenditure of muscular force to maintain spinal alignment of the head, shoulders, hips, knees and ankles.

Am I at Risk?
The biggest risk factor for poor posture is the smart phone in the palm of your hand. Over the past 7 years mobile usage has grown from less than 30 minutes a day to nearly 3 hours a day for an average adult. Every time we look at a phone or tablet, we tilt our head forward, which can change the weight of our head from 10 pounds to as much as 60 pounds. Over time, this puts excessive strain on the spinal joints and causes tension within the muscles of the neck, shoulders and upper back.

How Do I Improve My Posture?
To begin with, start holding your smart phone at eye level. This will prevent you from excessively flexing your head forward. Additionally, squeeze your shoulder blades together 5 times every time you look at your smart phone.  This will help strengthen your mid back. You have more time? Try this 10 minute workout: