Proper Spine Alignment

Proper posture and spine alignment is important for your overall health. Knowing how to properly maintain a neutral spine position while you move, sit and stand can help you stay active and may even prevent broken bones or other types of pain. Spine alignment is one of the most important things about posture and body mechanics. Maintaining proper alignment puts less stress on your spine, back, hips, neck, and other parts of your body. To keep proper alignment, avoid doing the following:

• Slumping over or having head-forward posture
• Slouching in your chair instead of sitting upright
• Bending forward at your waist
• Twisting your spine to a point of strain
• Twisting your trunk and bending forward when doing any type of lifting or even activities as simple as coughing or sneezing
• Anything that requires extended reaching. For example, reaching for the top shelf at the store can result in a strain or, even worse, losing balance and falling.
• Exercising with improper form.

Avoiding these moves and properly exercising on a regular basis are two of the best ways to maintain proper spine alignment and good posture. Additionally, it’s important to consider how our bodies are positioned when they’re not moving. For an extended period of sitting at work or in the car, consider trying a back rest with lumbar support. These types of back pillows not only help keep you comfortable, they’re great for maintaining proper posture. When you’re in bed sleeping for the next day, the right head and neck pillow can make a world of difference for how rested you feel and limiting any pain when you wake up. A cervical pillow is an essential aspect of maintaining a proper spine. For side sleepers, a leg spacer will help keep your knees in line with the rest of your spine.