Good Health and Good Posture

As physicians, we talk or are supposed to counsel patients about exercise and smoking cessation. That’s a given. But do we talk to patients and do we, as physicians, practice good posture? Poor posture can be the source of so many maladies and is one problem that is reasonably easy to fix. Developing good posture is much easier than a diet and a smoking cessation program. This blog will discuss the importance of good posture and how we can improve our own posture and the posture of our patients.

Good Posture…just how important is it? 
Posture ranks right up at the top of the list when you are talking about good health. It is as important as eating right, exercising, getting a good night’s sleep and avoiding potentially harmful substances like alcohol, drugs and tobacco. Good posture is a way of reducing stress and fatigue.

The good news is that most everyone can avoid the problems caused by bad posture…and you can make improvements at any age.

Why Good Posture is Good Health

We’re a health conscious society today and good posture is a part of it. Even for younger people, how you carry yourself when working, relaxing or playing can have big effects. Poor posture can result in lethargy and poor performance at work.

Today, posture-related problems are increasing for two reasons:
1. As we become a society that watches more television than any previous generation, this often leads to poor posture
2. As we become a more electronic society with more and more people working at sedentary desk jobs or sitting in front of computer terminals, we are at risk for improper posture

Suggestions For Good Posture
1. Control your weight. Strive for a BMI <25.
2. Develop a regular program of exercise – regular exercise keeps you flexible and helps strengthen your muscles to support proper posture and
3. Be conscious of your work place – Raise your computer screen to eye level so you are looking straight ahead and not with your head down putting a strain on your neck and back. Then get up from your chair every hour and stretch if you sit at a computer for long periods

Bottom line: Of course a healthy lifestyle includes proper nutrition, a regular exercise program, moderate use of alcohol, no use of tobacco or tobacco products, and I am suggesting that good posture also be added to that list.

Any woman, no matter what her age, can help reduce the sag in her breasts by nearly 50% by simply standing tall.
Improving your posture