As we age, bad habits such as slouching, hunching, and leading an inactive lifestyle cause muscle tension and fatigue, this ultimately leads to what is known as poor posture. As we go about our daily activities we tend to use some muscles more than others, hence one set may experience tightening or shortening while another group of muscles will lengthen and become weak.
Poor posture essentially means that our spine is an unnatural position, which ultimately leads to adding stress on the joints, muscles, and vertebrae creating pressure on these tissues.
Cosmetically this will also affect your healthy appearance, it may lead to you looking 10 kilograms heavier simply because of positioning. (See Below)
Symptoms include head that either leans forward or backward, rounded (hunched over) shoulders, drooping belly area, and bent knees when standing or walking. Patients often complain of back pain, body aches and pains, muscle fatigue, bellies, and headache.
Causes
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Lack of education or awareness of correct posture
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Sedentary lifestyle
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Occupational demands
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Joint stiffness
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Decreased fitness
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Muscle weakness
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Muscle tightness
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Poor core stability
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Poor ergonomic work-stations
Treatment
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Laser Therapy works by creating a concentrated beam of light radiation onto the area that requires treatment. This promotes healing of the targeted tissue as well as reducing pain, inflammation, and swelling.
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Ultratone is an effective way to improve poor posture through electric stimulation of the area. The treatment teaches your muscles to contract correctly and unconsciously. Several sessions may be required.
Physiotherapy may be required in more extreme cases to help the body heal and then follow up with aesthetic treatment.
Try yoga or pilates, both exercises focus on strengthening the back and core. Look for classes that focus on alignment.
Tips
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Perform stretching exercises two or three times a week to improve muscle flexibility
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Exercise regularly to improve muscle strength and tone
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Avoid standing on one foot for long periods of time
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Cross your legs at the ankle, rather than at the knee
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Avoid sitting in soft, squashy chairs
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Make sure your mattress is supportive enough to keep your spine straight when lying on your side
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Use a pillow that supports your neck
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Keep your back straight while exercising and use your thigh muscles when lifting heavy weights
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Be conscious of your posture regularly
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Use a well-designed office chair
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Get up and move regularly when sitting for long periods of time