Body Mechanics and Posture - Functional Advantage
Neil Sauer Health Tips

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Body Mechanics and Posture


Growing up, most of us were told to sit up straight. However, as we’ve grown older, most people find themselves thinking less about good posture as they are busy doing other things. Many of us work in jobs that involve sitting, too. Improper body mechanics and posture can cause pain and added stress in joints and muscles.

So what are posture and body mechanics? Posture is the position in which you hold your body when you sit, stand, or lie down. Body mechanics is similar, but involves movement of the body. This can include walking, bending over, lifting objects, and other household activities we perform on a daily basis.

The three key tips to remember for proper body mechanics are to:

  • Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart for a sturdy foundation.
  • Bend at your knees instead of your waist. (Especially when lifting – this puts less of a strain on your back!)
  • Keep your neck, back, hips, and feet aligned when you move. Avoid bending while twisting at the waist.

To keep good posture while sitting, think about the 90-90-90 rule. This involves keeping your elbows, hips, and knees at a 90 degree angle. Using good posture will put less stress on joints and cause less pain in your daily life. This can be especially handy if you work in an office or tend to be seated frequently.

Posture

These rules and tips can come in handy when it comes to working from home or performing activities around the house. Avoiding using your back to lift and being conscious of how you’re sitting can reduce the chance of neck or back pain in the future.


Neil Sauer

Neil Sauer

Physical Therapist, Certified Health Coach and company owner Neil Sauer graduated from Saginaw Valley State University in 2002 with a Bachelor of Science. During that time he played four years of collegiate soccer. Neil earned a Doctor of Physical Therapy from Central Michigan University in 2006. He has taken continuing education courses for Stanley Paris manual therapy techniques and a Gary Gray Functional Training course. He has also taken selective functional movement assessment courses with the North American Sports Medical Institute (NASMI). Neil’s treatment philosophy goes beyond reducing pain and restoring motion/mobility. He has a passion for health and wellness and for improving the quality of life of his clients, and works holistically with them to ensure their injuries do not reoccur and that his clients enjoy optimal functionality. He strives to help his patients live more active, mobile and healthy lives knowing that they don’t have to rely on pain medications, injections or surgery. In his personal life, he is married and has two sons. During spare time, he enjoys spending time with his family, fishing, spending time outdoors and leading an active and healthy life. Neil also likes to read as much as possible when he finds/makes time. He primarily reads books on leadership, business and special forces. An avid exercise enthusiast, he continually works to improve his own health and wellness.
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