Perhaps you're an
of office worker, or a driver, a VDT operator, or a student -- you're a person who spends
a good portion of each day sitting. So why does your back ache? The fact is, most back
trouble is caused by poor posture and weak muscles -- two conditions common to people who
sit. You can take care of your back, and keep it fit, by using good posture and building
strength and flexibility -- while you sit.
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Good Sitting Posture
Your back has three curves -cervical (neck), thoraic (chest), and lumbar (lower back). All
three curves should be aligned to keep your back in balance. Often, we slouch in our
chairs or bend forward over our work, which throws these curves out of balance.
Try the following tips to support and balance your back while sitting.
First, place a
pillow (or rolled up towel) at the back of your chair seat to support your lower
back.
Then, move your
seat as close to your work as possible to keep from bending forward.
Finally, angle
your work (or VDT screen) so you can look straight ahead rather than looking down.
Strong, Flexible
Muscles
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The following exercises help build strong,
flexible muscles to support your back. They also help relieve tension that can occur when
you sit in one position for a long time. Each exercise takes only a few minutes, and can
be done while you sit. Try a few and feel the difference! (Note: Be sure your chair is
stable before beginning these exercises and stop if you feel any discomfort.)
Sit Back and Relax
Once you learn how to care for your back while you sit, you can sit back and relax,
knowing that you're keeping your back healthy and strong. Sitting doesn't have to be a
Pain in the back if you keep fit while you sit. |
Let your head roll forward. Slowly rotate your head without straining your
neck. Repeat 5 times in each direction.
Sit as shown with feet flat on floor. With your hands on chair (or desk)
for support, slowly raise your thighs a few inches above your thighs a few inches above
your chair seat. Repeat 5 times.
Clasp your hands behind your head and push your elbows back. Release the
tension, then repeat 5 times.
Slowly lean forward until your upper body is resting on your lap. Hold for
10 seconds. Place your hands on your knees. Sit back up. Repeat 5 times.
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