How Old Is Your Back?

No, not a trick question, because it relates to your posture as it is being moulded by increasing use of online media. There are certainly plenty of online hazards to face, but this one is purely physical as it seems that 74% of social media users report backache, a headache or eyestrain due to their extended computer use. Last week I was highlighting how to protect yourself from radiation from mobiles and computers but the long-term effects of bad posture can have a terrifically negative impact on your overall health.

Anyone who has seen me speak knows I am a devotee of MBT shoes to give me good posture, keep my feet and knees cushioned from impact and activate core muscles that support the spine and joints. Now they have supported a new website at postureage.com where you can find out what your posture age is and what to do if you’re at risk from ‘Social Media Back’. The test asks about daily routines, from how you carry bags to how many pillows you sleep with, and highlighting their bad habits along the way.

All of the 200 people surveyed used their Twitter account, Stephen Fry what did you start, and it was virtually the same for the other social networking sites. Facebook was used by 94% of the sample and 93% for LinkedIn. The worst statistic, healthwise, though is the fact that 95% admit to accessing the Internet in front of the TV or even in bed where good posture is virtually impossible and you risk serious damage to your back.

To maintain the best posture you can while surfing the net try these simple tips:

1. Don’t slouch – imagine you’re being lifted by a thread through the top of your head, like a puppet

2. Sit on chairs that support your back; tempting as it is to sprawl across the sofa

3. Bend your knees, not your back if you need to lift something and never twist and lift at the same time

4. Get up, stretch, and walk around at regular intervals

5. Don’t cross your legs while sitting down as it restricts blood flow. Distribute your weight evenly and sit with your feet shoulder width apart and feet flat on the ground

6. When you are stranding, don’t put all your weight on one foot with your hip jutting out as you are putting strain on your muscles that you will end up paying for

7. Strong core muscles can reduce your chance of back injury so build in regular exercise such as yoga, Pilates, walking or swimming.  They are excellent ways to keep you in good general health.

Remember to check out your posture at www.postureage.com and if you want to know more about MBT, the anti-shoe, their website is www.uk.mbt.com