Posture

dillmilk

This goes under "fitness" right?? Wasn't sure where to post this in the forums. I've had a stiff back for the past two years due a sedentary lifestyle. I couldn't figure out what was wrong; my chiropractor said I needed to strengthen my back and my doctor told me I needed to work on my flexibility. Well both of those solutions seem to only have temporary relief. Sitting for 8+ hours a day is unavoidable and I realized it's only when I'm sitting or laying down that I experience the discomfort. I guess I've kind of come to the conclusion that my posture could be the problem (it could also be my mattress, but it's not too hard or too soft??). Lately I've been sitting on a little stool at my desk and my back feels fine. I'm sitting up straighter and embracing my core to help my spine. I guess I'm just wondering if anyone else back issues or posture issues what you do to fix it? I've tried sitting on a medicine ball, but I find I fatigue a lot faster than sitting on a stool. Same with standing.

smile_laughter

I highly recommend yoga. I started Bikram Yoga 9 months ago, and my spine is so much stronger. I was never a fan of yoga (I couldn't keep focused, got bored, couldn't hold a pose, etc). I still can't do some of the poses, but my back and hips are so much healthier today. It doesn't have to be Bikram (this is hot yoga....some can't do the heat), so just research the different yoga classes and try it out for at least 1-2 weeks. I think you'll be happy with how your posture is in that short amount of time.

Good luck

koslowkj

Another vote for yoga. My posture has majorly improved since starting. I follow Yoga With Adrienne on YouTube because I love her beginner series, but there are a lot of other YouTube channels as well, and there are probably a few gyms wherever you are that offer classes if you prefer a group atmosphere and/or an in person instructor.

lorrpb

Strength & flexibility suggested by your health care providers would help improve your posture. Since I've been working out & strength training, my low back pain had nearly disappeared.

B4Rachael

I would keep up with what your doctor said and if you feel like you need to add in other things to help that should be fine. When I was having back pain from sitting at my desk job, my physical therapist suggested strengthening my hips. There are several simple exercises you can use. https://runnersconnect.net/running-injury-prevention/the-top-5-hip-strengthening-exercises-for-runners-to-prevent-injury-and-improve-hip-drive/

Karen_can_do_this

Yoga or Pilates. Best things ever for my sore back from my bad posture.

giantrobot_powerlifting

Tighten your core as you walk, chest up shoulder back, and head level. All you really need to do.

TonyB0588

dylan_mazur wrote: »

This goes under "fitness" right?? Wasn't sure where to post this in the forums. I've had a stiff back for the past two years due a sedentary lifestyle. I couldn't figure out what was wrong; my chiropractor said I needed to strengthen my back and my doctor told me I needed to work on my flexibility. Well both of those solutions seem to only have temporary relief. Sitting for 8+ hours a day is unavoidable and I realized it's only when I'm sitting or laying down that I experience the discomfort. I guess I've kind of come to the conclusion that my posture could be the problem (it could also be my mattress, but it's not too hard or too soft??). Lately I've been sitting on a little stool at my desk and my back feels fine. I'm sitting up straighter and embracing my core to help my spine. I guess I'm just wondering if anyone else back issues or posture issues what you do to fix it? I've tried sitting on a medicine ball, but I find I fatigue a lot faster than sitting on a stool. Same with standing.

@dylan_mazur Assuming you're using a computer while sitting at that desk, here's one of the many helpful sites explaining the dos and don'ts of how to set up your workspace.
http://www.ergonomics.com.au/how-to-sit-at-a-computer/