Page 39 - Seniors Today - Oct 2019

Posture practice makes perfect

Correcting posture defects takes time
connects the two is shaped like a gentle “S”. In
this position minimum muscle force is required
to mantain the erect position, leading to least
stress on the muscles, ligaments and joints.
While sitting, one’s lower and middle back
should be well supported by the back rest. One’s
thighs should be resting on the seat and feet
should be resting on the floor. Avoid crossing
the legs. Lying down can be on one’s side or
back, but avoid sleeping on the stomach. Any
twist on the back and neck should be avoided.
Abnormal posture could be due to a mechanical
problem such as flat feet, unequal leg lengths or
spinal curvatures. More commonly though, it
is caused by assuming an incorrect position in
one’s growing years or over time.
Correcting postural defects is difficult, and
takes time. It involves education about how
to stand, sit and sleep correctly. The right
furniture – chairs, tables, etc – go a long way
in reducing the strain on the body. Exercises
remain the mainstay of posture correction.
These exercises are aimed at strengthening
one’s core and correcting the weak muscles.
Improving flexibility also helps. These should
be done in conjunction with a physiotherapist or
doctor to guide you. Lastly, you should always
be aware of what is wrong and constantly keep
correcting it, so over time you naturally mantain
the correct posture. The right furniture can help reduce strain on the body

SENIORS TODAY | Volume 1 | Issue 4
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