Monday, June 27, 2011

Straighten Up And Fly Right

Up to 80 percent of Americans experience back pain at some point in their lives, and each year 15 percent of all adults are treated for such problems as herniated discs or lumbar pain. The majority of back pain is the result of muscle and ligament strain or weakness, and can often be prevented by developing core strength and proper posture. Maintaining good posture not only helps you look better, it improves muscle tone, makes breathing easier and is one of the best ways to stave off back and neck pain. If your spine is not balanced, you will inevitably have problems in your back, your neck, your shoulders and even your joints.

If you sit at a desk all day, the center of your computer screen should be at eye level, and the desk height should allow your forearms to rest comfortably at a 90-degree angle. Work with your feet flat on the floor and your back against the chair. Whether you work in an office or at home, get up and stretch every 30 to 60 minutes.

Sitting for long periods puts pressure on discs and fatigues muscles. Stand up and place your hands on your lower back, as if you were sliding them into your back pockets. Gently push your hips forward and slightly arch your back. Sit back down and circle your shoulders backward, with your chin tucked, about 10 times. Solutions to get your feet feeling better fast include yoga toes stretching and foot exercises. Yoga is an excellent method to stay stretched. SmartToes Toe Stretchers also provide relief for hammer toe and bunions and aid plantar fasciitis treatment.

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