May is Posture Month, an annual reminder to evaluate how your posture changed over the last year and learn more about its impact on your health.

It is important to be aware of your posture when you exercise, lift, sit and work. Tech habits such as being hunched over on mobile devices also shape your body. According to posturemonth.org, studies show our posture can have a dramatic impact on health:

• College students are cell-phone addicts, spending 8-10 hours a day on their phonescreating neck pain and loss of mobility.

 

• People who spend 12 hours or more per day seated are at greater risk for diabetes, heart disease, and life-threatening falls.

 

• Low back pain is the most common disability for people under age 45, causing lost productivity, inability to participate in normal activities, and diminished enjoyment of life.

 

What are the best posture correctors?

There are no “best” posture correctors. You should purchase one that best suits your needs. Whether you have good or bad posture, Carmichael’s locations carry the following products and more that can support your back and improve posture.

The BackJoy SitSmart Posture Core relieves back pain and keeps you sitting comfortably for hours. It features 2x comfort cushioning and wider seating surface, and it tilts the pelvis upright to engage core muscles. The innovative sitting device is weatherproof/waterproof, fits adults up to 300 lbs. and works in on an office chair, a couch and hard bleachers.

 

Golden Power Lift Chairs are available in a variety of styles and designs. The chairs help the elderly or people with a limited range of mobility avoid straining their back and muscles when they need to stand up or sit down. They also can be adjusted to a comfortable position for sleeping. The chairs provide up to five comfort zones, and each can be adjusted independently with the AutoDrive hand control.

 

The comfort and support of NOVA pillows such as the Comfort Curve Neck Pillow improves neck posture. It is designed to relieve neck and shoulder pain and muscle tension as well as promote a better night’s sleep. Use it as your favorite pillow to support your head and neck while reclining, watching TV, reading or sleeping.

 

How can I improve my posture?

“ACE Your Posture,” take action to improve posture with the posture assessment below provided by posturemonth.org. The website also has a guide for a do-it-yourself posture check that you can follow.

• Awareness – A quick posture check is an annual must-do.

 

• Control – A few minutes a day of posture exercise is all you need to improve your posture.

 

• Environment– To maintain great posture, create a posture-smart environment to put an end to bad habits!

 

There is no “perfect posture.” How you align and balance your body when you sit helps improve posture. Strengthening how your body balances and how it moves also helps. Having strong posture will help your body look good and move well for a long time.