Causes of Bad Seating Posture

Driving to the office and desk-based work is the norm for millions of people. These postures are possibly the root of a lot of back problems. According to research findings presented to the Radiological Society of North America by Canadian and Scottish researchers, sitting in a slumped position causes wear and tear on the lowest two spinal levels and a reduction in spinal disk height.

Training

• Many people have a memory of grandparents and other elderly relatives telling them to "sit up straight." People emphasized good posture, particularly in children. In some schools, children were required to walk upright balancing a book on their heads. Standing tall and walking straight were desirable traits. This emphasis has declined, and many children today hardly know the meaning of the word "posture," according to "The Times."

Habit

• So much of bad posture is related to habit. Slouching is easy to do, particularly when tired. Modern furniture almost encourages lounging about, with usually only the elderly or those with back problems asking for a straight-backed chair. It is often only when a person experiences a back or neck problem that she begins to seriously consider her posture.

Lifestyle

• Modern lifestyles and work practices present a serious challenge to good posture. Driving, particularly in heavy traffic, or stressful conditions cause the driver to sit in a hunched position, which is not conducive to good back health. Sitting in front of a computer almost inevitably involves poor positioning of the back and neck, though specially designed ergonomic chairs might help. According to the research presented to the Radiological Society, sitting with your back angled slightly back is the best position for your spine.