You may have heard terms like tech neck, texting thumb, screen slump, email eye, and gamer’s thumb. While technology has its obvious advantages, it can take a toll on our health, and exact a postural price in particular. Whether we’re slumped in an office chair for eight hours or up until the wee hours on our tablets, too much tech time can impact our posture.
Here are 5 simple tips to remember to prevent postural problems:
Tip #1: Mind Your Posture at Work
Whether you work at home or the office, here are some actions you can take:
- Use an adjustable standing desk and alternate between sitting and standing throughout the workday.
- Use an exercise or balance ball throughout the day.
- Take frequent breaks.
- Raise your computer screen.
- Hold your phone more upright
Tip #2: Get Moving
Spend more of your day being active. Take the stairs instead of the elevator. Stand up during a conference call or meeting. Do yoga, walk, or engage in stretching or strengthening exercises.
Tip #3: Use a Foam Roller
Inexpensive yet effective, a foam roller can help loosen muscles, increase blood flow, and boost oxygen to areas of the body.
Tip #4: Seek Alternative Health Care
While prescription medications only mask symptoms, chiropractic, acupuncture and massage therapy are effective drug-free healthcare alternatives that can improve posture. Taking a bath with Epsom salt also is good for stress relief and loosening muscles and joints. It also naturally increases melatonin production which helps us sleep better.
Tip #5: Do a Digital Detox
As a technology-driven lifestyle can impact one’s health, it’s a good idea to take a digital detox from time to time. Some ideas: Consider putting your phone away during dinner, listen to a Ted talk during your morning commute versus reading an article on your tablet, and power down your devices well before you turn in.
If your posture isn’t where you’d like it to be, contact us today for an appointment. We can analyze your posture and get you aligned in no time!