The musculoskeletal system of the human body is a very finely tuned piece of mechanical engineering – similar to the engine of a car! Every structure has its set place and function and for normal movement all of these structures have to work perfectly together.
If one of these structures, typically the muscle, is over used then an imbalance between the structures will follow and this can lead to injury and pain, from the high performance athlete to the sedentary office worker.
The correct spinal alignment, pelvic and shoulder girdle stability is essential in allowing the body to cope with gravitational and other internal/external forces and the muscles to work in balance. From the base of the skull down to the pelvis the spine should form a gentle S shape, however in the modern world of “desk jobs”, computer and phone use and long distance travel, most people spend long periods of their day sitting in poor postures.
This changes the mobility of joints and effects the length, strength and timing of muscles and will eventually cause decreased movement, inflammation and pain.
It is essential therefore to ensure that you work to maintain a good posture.
Here are a few hints to ensure that you do this!
- When standing, try to “tuck in” your bottom and gently tighten your abdominal muscles.
- Do not stand with one hip out i.e., have your weight evenly distributed between your two feet.
- Avoid low seats and seats that tip you backwards, try to always sit in an upright chair that supports your back.
- Avoid being in one position for longer than 20 minutes.
- Try not to cross your legs when sitting.
- Ensure that computer, keyboard and mouse are in the right position and right height. If you spend long periods at your desk you should have an ergonomic assessment.
- Don’t drive for long periods without a break.
- Try to do 30 minutes of walking, cycling or swimming a day.
At Physio for All we can carry out an assessment of your posture/alignment and muscle function even if you don’t have pain, to ensure that you have a healthy body.