By Tony Garrow, D.C.

Due to the stresses of everyday life many of us have developed abnormal postures that can cause health problems. These problems include: headaches, dizziness neck pain, back pain, arthritis symptoms, sciatica and more. Some common causes of bad posture are car accidents, falls, sleeping positions, and every day prolonged positions required by work. You do not necessarily have to live with all these aches and pains. Regular stretches and exercise can help improve abnormal postures which will decrease stress on the body. First, the bad posture should be identified. Then the exercises are done in the exact opposite direction of the bad posture. For example: if a person's head goes forward too much, they should stretch their head backwards and hold it back for 10 seconds. Eventually, one would work up to 20 repetitions per day. Shifting of the head to the right is another common posture. So if your head shifts to the right, then you should shift over to the left and hold it for 10 seconds. If any pain or discomfort is experienced during the stretch, then it should be stopped and the person should contact a Chiropractor who specializes in posture. These exercises work best with a partner who can identify the abnormal postures and make sure that the exercises are done properly. Good luck with your new postural exercises!!!