Sit Right campaign launches Spinal Health Week (21-27 May)
In this months column I’d like to focus on ergonomics in the office, in particular sitting posture. The 21st – 27th of May marks the beginning of National Spinal Health Week and this year the Chiropractors Association of Australia (CAA) is warning people to get off their backsides or risk the possibility of spinal damage and developing chronic disease.
CAA NT Chiropractors or urging NT residents to “sit right”, an initiative designed to prompt Territorians to prioritise their spinal health and take note of the dangers of the simple act of sitting.
In essence what most people don’t realise is that prolonged sitting can have health consequences, as our bodies are designed for movement, not a sedentary lifestyle.
Australians are spending more time than ever sitting, this is placing immense pressure on their spines. In fact sitting in a slumped position puts 7 times more pressure on your mid lumbar disc than lying on your back. For optimum spinal health, we need to get out of our chairs more.
Have a look at the checklist below to ensure you maintain good posture and prevent spinal pain,”
- Keep your hips, elbows and knees at open angles (slightly more than 90 degrees)
- Use a chair with a low back support and recline slightly to ease lower back pressure
- Ensure your feet are flat on the floor or on a footrest
- Factor in short, regular breaks from sitting, to stretch, stand, change or correct your posture, or walk around the office.
Spinal Health Week is a great reminder to make an appointment with your local CAA chiropractor, to assess your spinal health and discuss how a more active lifestyle will improve your overall wellbeing.
Chiropractors, who are five years university trained, are experts at analysing posture and spinal problems and can provide expert care, exercises and lifestyle advice.
For advice on how to Sit Right or to download the free widget, visit www.SitRight.com.au and for a posture assessment, your local CAA chiropractor.
