Why Good Posture is Important for your Bone Health
Your skeleton is the foundation for everything your body needs to do. From an early age, many of us have been scolded to “sit up straight” and “stop slouching.” While that directive may have been annoying to hear as a child, it is very sensible advice that will benefit your orthopedic care.Increased Strength
Proper alignment of your bones places your body in its strongest positions. You’ll struggle less in daily activities and even breath better. Tasks such as lifting and carrying items is much easier with proper body positioning. You’ll be strong and stable and minimize the possibility of developing a rounded spine, which affects the strength, flexibility, and performance of your entire body.Less Pain
Slouching and crouching will pinch nerves, compress muscles, and cause your body to have unnecessary pain. Misalignment created by bad posture generates pressure on your joints, and your muscles are stretched to compensate for the uncomfortable angles you are forcing upon them. Your limbs and joints operate much more efficiently and comfortably when aided by proper posture since they are no longer unnaturally compressed and twisted. Maintaining the correct curves of the spine will also help ward off osteoporosis later in life, which can be painful and debilitating.Less Risk
When your body is in its strongest position, you are less likely to break a bone or seriously injure a muscle or ligament. Spine fractures are an especially dangerous side effect of bad posture and the likelihood of incurring them increases as you age and your bones become more brittle. Stability of your skeleton will make falls less likely as well, helping you avoid critical injuries.
Keeping yourself active can ultimately reduce the risk of pain or injury. That’s why you should look into starting a safe exercise regimen right away. And what better way to actively age than to join a Pilates class. Experts say that Pilates is perfect because it has a lesser impact on the body, unlike other forms of exercise, which build bulky muscles that tend to be prone to injury. Pilates focuses on building core muscles, including the back, hips, arms, legs, and abdominals.
In fact, it is a gentle way to help get in shape since most of the exercises are performed while sitting or reclining. Pilates uses techniques that have light resistance. Good posture is an important key to keeping your skeleton healthy and strong, so find a Pilates class today!