How to Check Your Posture

Developing and maintaining good posture is the gift that keeps on giving, preventing back pain (i.e. trips to the doctor and chiropractor) and other sicknesses. It will also potentially save you thousands of dollars in medical bills. Checking your posture is a great way to see if your posture is up to par and will give you an idea of what you need to change. Once you figure out what you need to change, you can begin working to improve your posture.

Instructions

Instructions

• 1

  Check your legs and back. Sitting down and starting with your feet, position them flat against the floor (or on a footrest). Your ankles, knees and hips must rest comfortably at 90 degrees, and your natural back curves should remain while sitting. Don't slouch. Move your hips far back against the chair back to ensure a straight back.

• 2

  Balance your head over your shoulders, avoiding bending and twisting the neck when looking at a computer screen or reaching to get something. Be sure to avoid twisting in your chair and stay straight, swiveling the seat as high or low as you need it.

• 3

  Relax your shoulders. Your elbows should be bent at 90 degrees. When you work, avoid bending your wrists and keep your hands relaxed. Do not reach for items if you can help it. Position your computer keyboard close enough to reach without straining. This will improve your posture.

• 4

  See a doctor or chiropractor if you experience extreme discomfort from the first three steps. It's never too late to improve your posture, but you might have sustained an injury in the past, or maybe you just need a chiropractic adjustment. Once you eliminate the discomfort from your neck and back, put to practice these important posture guidelines.