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Sit Up Straight!

Woman squinting at computer

Sit at a desk most of the day? Try setting intermittent alarms on your phone to check your posture!

Remember when your mother or your teacher used to say “Sit up straight. Don’t slouch!”

Many of us today work in sedentary jobs that require that we sit for most of the workday. However, whether at a desk, or at a football game, or in front of a television set, good posture is imperative for optimum spinal health.

Consider the way you’re sitting right this moment:

  • Are your feet flat on the floor, with your knees at a 90 angle?
  • Are your buttocks, back and shoulders up against the backrest of your chair?
  • Does the chair you’re sitting in provide enough lumbar support? Does the backrest fit into the natural curve of your spine? Are all your spinal curves properly supported?
  • Are your shoulders relaxed and even, not hunched in a forward position?
  • Is your body weight equally distributed across both hips?
  • Are your knees level with or slightly higher than your hips?

If you answered “No” to any of these, you’re probably exerting undue stress on your spine.

Keep in mind that it is not a good idea to sit in the same position for more than 40 minutes. Chronic slouching affects the discs between the vertebrae, causing microstrain and weakness.

Remember to periodically take the time to stand up and stretch your back and legs or take a short walk.

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