On February 16, 2025 By newsroom Topic: Health And Fitness Skills
A stooped posture, or hyperkyphosis, is common with aging and can lead to back pain, headaches, and even increased fall risks. Here's how to maintain or regain a straight, healthy posture.
Take Breaks Often
- Stand up every 30–60 minutes if sitting or leaning forward.
- Try shoulder circles, shoulder squeezes, or chin tucks to counteract strain.
Adjust Your Device Setup
- Keep screens at eye level to reduce neck and upper back strain.
Practice Straight Posture
- Wall Exercise: Stand with your head, shoulders, back, and heels against a wall. Imagine a cord pulling your head upward. Hold for 30 seconds, repeat 3 times daily.
- Floor Stretch: Lie on your back for 20 minutes daily with a rolled towel or pool noodle between shoulder blades. Use pillows under your head if needed.
Strengthen Back and Core Muscles
- Do strength-training workouts 2–3 times weekly to build endurance and keep posture upright.
Protect Your Bones
- Engage in weight-bearing exercises like walking or lifting weights.
- Get enough calcium, vitamin D, and magnesium to reinforce bone health.
Know When to Seek Help
- See a physical therapist for personalized exercises if no improvement occurs after 6–8 weeks of effort.
- Visit a doctor if you experience pain, numbness, or difficulty with daily tasks—this could signal underlying conditions like vertebral fractures or spinal stenosis.
Make posture care part of your daily routine to stay straighter, stronger, and healthier as you age!