STAND TALL

One of the least known (or realized) causes of shoulder/neck/back pain is poor posture.  Many of us don't always realize when we have bad posture.  If you're noticing slight pain in any of those areas....you might want to check your posture.

The first four images above are examples of postures we typically see.  Do you fall into any of these?  You might, but haven't realized it. Fixing your posture doesn't have to take up hours of your time, but it will require some awareness on your part!

TEST IT OUT

Here is a quick test to see where your posture is at and also feel what it should be like.  Take two small to medium-sized towels and roll them up.  Line yourself up against a wall and place one rolled towel behind your neck, and the other behind your lower back.  These towels will help encourage your natural spinal curves. Everything should be in contact with the wall or towels

THE FIX

1. Start with your knees bent and slightly away from the wall for the easiest level of correction
2. Place the back of your arms against the wall and practice sliding your hands up and down the wall. (if your arms lose contact with the wall, you're going too high)
3. Step things up by walking your feet closer to the wall.  The closer your feet are to the wall, the more difficult this corrective exercise will be.

Whether your work at a desk or are on your feet all day, this is a VERY useful exercises.  Try and take a few moments out of your day to practice this.  Start with multiple times throughout the day until your posture begins to improve.  Once you can achieve good posture, the occasional check and reminder would be beneficial.

If you have ANY questions or comments, requests for articles, or want to share how FitLife Occupational has helped you...feel free to comment on these blogs or let your FLO trainer know!