The Centers for Advanced Orthopaedics is redefining the way musculoskeletal care is delivered across the region with locations throughout Maryland, DC, Virginia and Pennsylvania.
November 3, 2019
The Risks of Poor Posture, and How to Fix It.
Look around you. How many people do you see slouched over a smartphone or computer? Poor posture is incredibly common, especially in this age of technology. Unfortunately, it’s also a common cause of many physical problems.
8 Common Symptoms of Poor Posture
- Back pain
- Neck pain
- Shoulder pain
- Headaches
- Fatigue
- Poor circulation
- Pinched nerves
- Spine misalignment
What can I do to improve my posture?
“The first step in improving posture is to be mindful of it. When you're sitting at the computer, remind yourself to sit up straight. When you're watching tv at night, try to keep your body upright and centered, not twisted to the side” says Melisa Hoffman, DPT, OrthoMaryland’s Director of Rehabilitation.
Melisa also recognizes the importance of core strength. The core muscles extend throughout the torso and work together to stabilize the spine and pelvis. When the core is weak, the lack of support makes maintaining an upright position difficult and the body naturally begins to slouch.
If you’re concerned about your posture or suffering from pain or stiffness at the end of the day, talk to your doctor about a referral for one-time physical therapy visit for postural training. Your physical therapist can go over specific techniques with you and provide a home program to help improve your posture and reduce pain.