Have you ever seen someone typing like this in the office and are you aware of how you look like when you sit? If your sitting posture is identical to the picture above, you are just one step closer to getting postural Kyphosis.
Kyphosis, also known as a round back or hunchback, is a condition in which the spine in the upper back has an excessive curvature. The upper back, or thoracic region of the spine, is supposed to have a slight natural curve. The spine naturally curves in the neck, upper back, and lower back to help absorb shock and support the weight of the head. Kyphosis occurs when this natural arch is larger than normal.
Some examples of factors that can lead to this unnatural curvature includes excessive amount of time in poor seated positions and ‘stooping’ — a problem mainly with tall people who have to constantly tilt their head downwards to interact with others. Over time, muscles of the front body become short and tight and the muscles of the back body become weak and overstretched.
To prevent yourself from getting into this “painful” situation, here are some asanas targeting on upper back, neck and rear shoulder strengthening and chest stretches:
– Bridge pose (Setu Bandasana)
– Locust pose (Salabhasana)
– Cobra pose (Bhujangasana)
– Mountain pose (Tadasana)
Be conscious of how you sit today and here are also some tips to help you!
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Shirley Ang (200hr YTT weekend class)
Ref:
1) http://www.nhs.uk/Livewell/Backpain/Pages/back-pain-and-common-posture-mistakes.aspx
2) http://www.healthline.com/symptom/kyphosis
