Posture

Correct Posture

Correct Sitting Posture

CORRECT SITTING POSTURE

Start in a slouched position.
Scoot your buttocks right to the back of the chair (if you are using a chair).

CORRECT SITTING POSTURE

Now extend backwards increasing the lordosis (the small of your back) until you feel a locking sensation.

Please note that this is the extreme of the good position and if this is maintained it may result in pain.

CORRECT SITTING POSTURE

Release your lordosis by 10% (bend forward by 10%) .
A lumbar roll/pillow can be used to support this arch in your back.
Keep your hips and knees bent to 90 degrees, while keeping your feet flat on the floor.
Avoid sitting on anything that would create uneven load distribution like your wallet.

Correct Standing Posture

CORRECT STANDING POSTURE

First bend down by sagging your chest and flexing at your hips and back.

CORRECT STANDING POSTURE

Now bend backwards until you feel your lower back joints locking up, this is your extreme lordosis.

CORRECT STANDING POSTURE

Reduce this position by 10% to take pressure of your joints.
Lift the chest, tighten your buttocks and contract your abdominal muscles.

Lifting

CORRECT POSTURE LIFTING

The key to lifting is maintaining your lumbar lordosis (small of your back).
Stand close to the object to be lifted, with a wide stance.

CORRECT POSTURE LIFTING

Accentuate your lordosis and use your knees to do the bending.

CORRECT POSTURE LIFTING

Now straighten your knees while maintaining your lordosis.
Use the same technique when lowering objects to the ground.

Sleeping Surfaces and Positions

SLEEPING SURFACES AND POSITIONS

Check your mattress and ensure it does not sag.
The mattress does not need to be hard, however it is essential your mattress is placed on a firm support.

SLEEPING SURFACES AND POSITIONS

If you sleep on your side, place a pillow in between your knees. If you sleep on your back, place a pillow under your knees.

Pillow Selection

PILLOW SELECTION

Choose a pillow, which will hold your head and neck in a neutral position.
Avoid very thick pillows
Do not use multiple pillows
Select a down or fibre filled pillow
Consider an orthopedic pillow

Coughing and sneezing

CORRECT POSTURE

If you need to cough and sneeze and you are worried it will hurt your back, try this technique.

When you feel the need to sneeze, stand up straight.

CORRECT POSTURE

Now bend backwards so that your lower back is in full lordosis (hollow) when you sneeze.

Workstation Ergonomics

Monitors should be clearly visible without straining or bending.
The top line of type on your screen should be 15 degrees below eye level.
Keep your shoulders relaxed and elbows

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