"There is no such thing as perfect posture, your next posture is your best posture"
Recently it has been reported that the most important thing you can do is change posture regularly. Many neurological conditions, particularly Parkinsons, cause altered posture which, if not considered, can end up causing irreversible changes. Prolonged poor posture can lead to poor joint and muscle position. A common result of this is back pain often due to maintaining a poor posture for lengthy periods of time. This can ultimately cause issues with mobility and independence.
Other issues linked with poor posture include reduced ability for lungs to expand fully and it can make you more susceptible to infection, nerve impingements, digestion issues and reduced wellbeing.
There are exercises which we encourage to prevent trunk stiffness and maintain spinal and neck mobility. We have demonstrated these below.
Sitting straight-backed
Pull your chin in, keeping your neck and back straight (not tipping your head forwards). Hold at the end position and feel the stretch in your neck.
Hold for 20-30 seconds.
Repeat 3 times.
Neck rotation
Turn your head slowly to the side.
Hold 10 seconds then turn to the other side.
Repeat 2 times.
Neck side flexion
Tilt your head toward one shoulder until you feel the stretch on the opposite side. Do not let the opposite shoulder raise up towards the ear.
Hold 10-20 seconds.
Repeat to other side.
Trunk extension in standing
Stand with your back against a wall with arms by your side.
Push your arms back against the wall and squeeze your shoulder blade muscles together. Push your chest out, do not let your shoulders come forward.
Hold 20-30 seconds.
Repeat 3 times.
Trunk rotation