Promoting proper posture while sitting.

According to the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons, the majority of low-back pain reported in the United States occurs within the lower five lumbar regions. The most pain falls within the fourth and fifth lumbar vertebrae, adjacent to the sacrum. As the last movable joint along the spine, the lumbosacral joint – where the fifth lumbar connects to the sacrum – bears greater weight and stress and, therefore, has a greater risk of strain or injury.

Research:

Regular wear and tear back injuries are not ordinarily caused by instant trauma, but rather are the result of wear, tear and abuse occurring over an extended period of time. Research has found that some 80 percent of repetitive stress disorders, particularly in the lumbosacral area, are caused by poor posture, fatigue and exhaustion. And, with the center of gravity of the spine at the lumbosacral area, misalignments resulting in abnormal ranges of motion often result in dysfunction (then pain) in the body. Most of the incidences of back injury thought to be the result of a single traumatic event are the result of cumulative damage. 

The Solution:

Stabilization and Correction.  First, you must stabilize your body when you are in a position of poor posture.  Your posture plays an important role in muscle fatigue and physical exhaustion, whether you are standing, seated, lifting, bending, or walking.  As our occupations and recreational activities place new prolonged demands on our body's, we are forced to find new ways to protect ourselves from injury.  The obvious answer is lifestyle change.  Eliminate awkward postures, don't lift heavy objects off the ground, don't sit with your head cocked forward at your desk or computer.  That would be great, but the reality is that we have to make a living.  Therefore, we must support and brace ourselves properly to prevent undue stress on our back, neck, and the rest of our body.

While your seated at work, in the car, on an airplane, or at home you should have proper low back support.  Find a low back support cushion.  The ideal width can usually be determined by measuring the width of your lower ribcage (Measure the width of your body just below the bottom of your sternum or breastbone).  You want a cushion that will leave less than an inch of space on each side of your body.  So, take your measurement, in inches, and find the lumbar support cushion that most closely matches your number. 

If your job, recreational activities, or a physical condition places you in positions where you must bend, twist, or carry any object of mass you should consider a back brace.  Every household should have one that will accommodate several or all members of the household.  A back brace can make the difference between "blowing out your back" and completing your cumbersome activities with energy to spare.  Having the ability and resources available to prevent injury is the hallmark of a responsible healthy lifestyle.

Complaints of the traveler: Poor posture, fatigue and exhaustion are common causes of low-back pain. As such, one of the more common complaints of travelers is an aching back. Why? Because travelers sit for prolonged periods of time, they haul heavy objects like luggage and children through airports and hotels, and sleep in strange beds with unfamiliar pillows. Whether you are traveling or at a desk, prolonged sitting will fatigue the back muscles. Eventually, one slips into a poor posture. The solution is to sit straight and use a lumbar cushion (especially for prolonged travel)  that will support your lower back. These cushions can be very effective in promoting proper posture in any chair while providing support and comfort for your lower back.

Correction of bad posture habits and postural retraining can work wonders for those already in pain, or with noticeable postural changes.  Chiropractors specialize in spinal misalignments, postural abnormalities, and restoration of proper joint proprioception.  Dr. Robles uses chiropractic techniques such as adjustments, applied kinesiology, meridian therapy, nutritional deficiencies and physiotherapy to correct postural abnormalities.  If you have specific questions or concerns you may ask Dr. Robles or you are welcome to Contact Us to schedule an appointment to see the doctor.

Consider This:

With many different body shapes, many different styles of back support cushions are available. While foam comfort supports are common, others use fiber, rigid plastic or air bladders. At the heart of each of our foam back cushions is a precision-cut core manufactured with the highest quality, long-lasting foam. Stepping up from basic models are deluxe models that can include a higher-grade fabric and positioning belts.

Choose the right Support Belt!

Proper lifting techniques combined with proper support can reduce the incidence of low back pain, and prevent low back injuries.

Lumbosacral Supports- Lumbosacral supports are the most common support garments for the prevention and relief of low-back pain. Designed to prevent or alleviate muscle strains and spasms, or to supplement the abdominal musculature when stretched or weakened. Upward and inward pressure supports the abdominal region and reduces stress on the lower back.

Industrail Supports- Help reduce the risk of injury caused by repetitive motions and act as a reminder to use proper lifting techniques. Designed to prevent or alleviate muscle strain and spasms, or to supplement the abdominal musculature when stretched or weakened. Upward and inward pressure supports the abdominal region and reduces stress on the lower back. Suspenders remind you to keep shoulders square, promoting a proper lifting posture.

Sacroiliac Supports- Increase compression of the pelvic region, which aids in immobilization and reduction of inflammation. Requires a snug fit positioned low around the pelvis. Most have a removable sacral pad that presses against the sacrum to increase posterior compression. Used to help relieve muscle strain and supplement the abdominal musculature when stretched or weakened, as in postpartum applications.

Trochanter Supports- Increase compression of the pelvic region, which aids in immobilization and reduction of inflammation. Used to help relieve muscle strain and supplement abdominal musculature when stretched or weakened, as in postpartum applications.

Abdominal Supports- Apply circular compression to the abdominal region, restoring a normal distribution of body weight, and improving posture and overall body physiology. Used to help reduce strain to muscles, ligaments and joints, especially following surgical incisions. Can also be used as a large rib belt or back support.

Rib Supports- Limit chest expansion through circular compression. Used to stabilize rib and sternum fractures, and provide support following surgical incisions.

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