Posture Strenthening Exercises

[Paulie]

Just wondering if anyone could head me into the right direction, would I need to see a physiotherapist or an osteopath, thanks ?

[angieliu]

Depends on the osteo/physio you go and see.

I would say physio as a first point to look at posture strengthening exercises. Some physios also practice clinical pilates which is beneficial for your posture. As for Osteo's, my osteo mainly does muscular skeletal stuff but also teaches yoga so he has helped m more with stretching rather than strengthening exercises. You can also look into Pilates too which will help strengthen your core muscles which will then in effect help your posture.

Hope that helps.

[Paulie]

I would say a physio that does teach pilates is a great idea.
Thanks

[angieliu]

Absolutely agree Paulie, my physio is also trained in clinical pilates and the first time I saw him he could tell that I was over compensating with my posture (he calls it dancers posture) and has been helping me strengthen my core muscles along with rehab for my shoulder.

Where are you based? At the AIS there are a number of really good physio's who see private patients.

[Napongo]

Depends on the osteo/physio you go and see.

"my osteo mainly does muscular skeletal stuff but also teaches yoga..."



Yoga is a great way for strengthening the core muscles that help maintain good posture.
Yoga can also help stretch out and decompress the spine, which over time results in better back health.

You can also practice simple at-your-desk exercises to promote better posture.

One very simple one I found is as follows
(I've taken the liberty of editing down the original text, which can be found at http://www.posturesupportnet.com (http://www.posturesupportnet.com/corrective-posture-exercises/the-abcs-of-sitting-healthy-office-posture))

To find your ideal office posture, try this corrective posture exercise:

1. Position your buttocks at the back of your chair, so your knees bend at a right angle and your feet lie flat on the floor.

2. Make sure you are sitting squarely on your sitz bones, with your weight evenly distributed in all directions...

3. ...If necessary, you can add a lumbar support pillow to help your spine stay in [the natual curved] position.

4. Keep your knees at the same height as your hips or slightly above. Do not cross them. It is best to keep your knees shoulder width apart.

I've found that by practicing this every time I find myself in a slouch, my posture has improved and become more effortless.

Hope that helps!
:-)

[PhysioAdvisor]

For more advice on improving your posture whilst sitting at a desk and beneficial postural exercises check out the following link:

http://www.physioadvisor.com.au/7674850/ergonomic-computer-setup-ergonomic-office-setup-.htm

Hope that helps,