What posture Type Are You?
When looking deeply into scientific studies, it is clear that there is no consensus definition of posture or ‘good’ posture for that matter.
My main interest is to teach you to decrease stressful loads on the body. Observation is the first step. I like to observe your natural position and your movement patterns. This helps me to understand what postural issue, if any, might be a factor in your presenting symptoms. I’m never judging, simply observing. I want to offer you some advice.
Although everyone is different, physiotherapists usually categorise posture into 4 types. Which category do you think you fit into?
In my experience over the past decade working as a Chartered Physiotherapist, I have realised that there is no such thing as perfect posture. Utilising these years of experience I can assure you there IS a way to help yourself to ensure you avoid putting excessive stress and strain on your body, which could play a role in reducing persistent pain.
I hope these tips help:
Becoming aware of what your body does all day is a great place to start. A Chartered Physiotherapist can help you understand the positions you adopt daily. Once you are aware you can do something about it.
Find something to counterbalance the position you are in most of the day. For example, if you’re sitting a desk for the majority of your day, your evening exercise might be a walk, jog, or standing exercise class. If you’re on your feet all day find a class that allows you to take the weight off your feet for a while.
Start a strength program for your spine to actively protect your back. Doing these exercises regularly is like taking out an insurance policy for your back. It’s never too late to start. Your local Chartered Physiotherapist is highly equipped to provide you with a tailored home exercise program.
Support your posture passively by using a good chair. Use ergonomic support as necessary.
Modifying your posture must not cause pain, but improving posture may help existing pain. Small regular changes with posture accumulate to significant differences in posture related symptoms. There’s only one way to find out for yourself!
This article was originally published on RTE.ie
Orla Crosse is a Chartered Physiotherapist and Yoga instructor with Performance Yoga and will be one of the core teachers on The elbowroom 300 Hour Advanced Yoga Teacher Training Course.