Proper Posture and Body Mechanics

There are many important reasons for clients to have proper posture. Number 1 would be for preventative measures. Standing up correctly will help to prevent disc herniation and general back pain. I have a hunch to my upper back and notice that my lower back hurts a lot. I noticed when I started working out at the gym and focused on my back muscles that the pain went away for the most part. Having a standing desk would also help strengthen a back because the client would not be leaning over it throughout most of the day. Number 2 would be to have good body awareness, with poor body posture you're more likely to lose sensation in places and not knowing where exactly they are in space. Number 3 is to prevent spinal contractures. Improper posture adds extra stress and strain on ligaments and tendons which can also lead to back pain. Lastly appearance, good standing posture has a positive affect to those around you. It makes you appear taller while also demands a certain amount of respect in the workforce.

An example that we were shown during this week was to hold a stick to your back while you squat to make sure you're bending your knees and not hunching your back is a good one because it has minimum equipment and you can do it at home. I also liked the slouch-overcorrect technique we learned about, sitting hunched over and then sitting extremely upright relaxing about 10% effort. This is a good exercise to do every once in a while especially when sitting at a desk for a long period of time. Another thing you could do for improvement is simply record the client squatting or standing and show them on camera where the problems lie and also record yourself for them to see proper form.