From the moment we wake up to the moment we go to bed, most of us are slouched over in some way. We hunch over our phones, we slouch in our chairs, and we even sit with our legs crossed. All of this poor posture can lead to back pain, neck pain, and a whole host of other health issues. But it’s not just about feeling pain; good posture is linked with increased confidence, greater height, and improved breathing. The list goes on and on. If you’re looking to make a difference in your posture, start straightening up today with these helpful tips, courtesy of The Scientific Triangle.

 

Exercise is key for better posture

One of the best ways to improve your posture is by strengthening the muscles in your back and core. This will help you better support your spine and avoid slouching. Many different kinds of exercise can help achieve this, but some are better than others. Yoga, for example, is an excellent way to improve your posture. Not only does it focus on strengthening the back and core muscles, but it also helps improve flexibility. This is important because tight muscles are often a contributing factor to bad posture. Swimming is another great option because it targets all of the major muscle groups while also providing low-impact cardio.

 

How firm is your mattress?

You may not realize it, but the type of mattress you sleep on can also impact your posture. If your mattress is too soft, it won’t provide the necessary support for your spine and hips, which can lead to lower back pain and poor posture during the day. A firmer mattress is a better option because it will help keep your spine aligned even as you move around during the night. Combine a firm mattress with a supportive pillow — one that keeps your head level with your shoulders — and you’ll be well on your way to better posture (and a good night’s sleep).

 

Standing up straight may increase your height

We’ve all been told to stand up straight since we were little kids. It turns out there may be some truth to Mom’s nagging after all. Studies have shown that poor posture can actually cause you to appear shorter than you really are because it causes your spine to compress. While you may covet the height of your favorite celebrity, you can still aim higher and add a few inches (literally) by improving your posture. Even just standing up straight when you’re walking or sitting down can make a big difference over time.

 

Is pain preventing good posture? See a Chiropractor

Chiropractors are trained to provide spinal manipulation and other treatments that can help relieve pain and improve your posture. While chiropractic care is generally safe, it’s always important to consult with your doctor before making an appointment. With that said, here are a few signs that it might be time to book a consultation with a chiropractor:

• You’ve been dealing with chronic back pain, which means it has affected you for more than a couple of weeks.
• The pain is severe or is preventing you from carrying out your normal activities.
• You’ve tried over-the-counter medications and other home remedies but nothing seems to be working.
• You have a history of back problems or injuries.

 

Stay on top of your records

If you suffer from back problems, it’s important to keep your medical records organized. A great way to have quick access is to use a PDF document converter like Adobe that you can store on your smartphone. Having all of this information in one place will make it easier for you to keep track of your treatment and progress. It will also be helpful if you need to see a new doctor or specialist.

 

Take steps to see big results

Even making small improvements can lead to big results when it comes to improving your posture. By exercising regularly, sleeping on a firm mattress, standing up straight, and visiting a chiropractor when needed, you can help improve your posture and live a healthier life! Trust us: your body will thank you for it. And don’t forget to keep good records in case you need to seek help from a new doctor or specialist.

The Scientific Triangle is working to present information from the world of sciences, outer space and our very own Nature in a way that adds to our collective understanding. If you have any questions, please email thescientifictriangle@gmail.com.