(2-minute read)
One of my missions for patients is to improve the way they sit and move. This often means I provide them with tips for better posture in Bristol from my Henleaze osteopathic clinic.
Maintaining a healthy sitting position and maintaining good spinal posture makes a huge difference on our quality of life. Poor posture is the cause of so many issues I treat.
In terms of enjoying a healthier life, maintaining good mobility and avoiding posture-related health issues, my top tips for better posture in Bristol include:
Knees below hips
This is the key to good posture. Positioning your seat so your knees are below your hips (with thighs sloping gently downwards) encourages the pelvis and spine to sit in a healthy position, maintaining the natural spinal curves.
This position aids good posture and helps engage core postural muscles.
Consider investing in an effective ergonomic seat, such as my Z Chair.
Set up your desk properly
A good desk setup promotes a healthy ergonomic posture. The top of the computer screen should be at eye level.
I’ve written an article about the best desk set-up to avoid back pain and deliver better posture at the same time. Read it here.
Take regular movement breaks
One of the best ways to maintain good posture and sitting position is to include regular movement breaks. I call them Micro Breaks.
Do not stay in one position for too long: stand up, walk around, stretch and change position. Regular movement breaks help prevent stiffness and poor sitting habits.
To find out more about the importance of Micro Breaks, visit here.
Strengthen your core
I also advise patients suffering from poor posture to consider their core strength.
Abdominal, back, and pelvic muscles help to support your body throughout the day, and gentle core strengthening can complement posture exercises over time.
I’ve written an article all about the benefits of maintaining good core strength. Read it here.
Mind your phone position
I’ve been treating more patients this year with health issues related to how they position themselves when on the phone. This includes patients of all ages.
The way (and amount of time) a person holds their phone can have a direct and negative impact on posture. This can lead to a number of issues, such as Text Neck Syndrome.
To find out how to spot and correct Text Neck Syndrome, read this article.
For a consultation with me in Henleaze to achieve better posture in Bristol, please book here.