The Mayo Clinic says practicing healthy posture keeps your spine steady and strong. Consistently slouching or stooping places a burden on ligaments and muscles as they strive to maintain balance. This added exertion can cause a number of problems including back pain and fatigue. The Mayo Clinic says good posture helps preserve the three natural curves in the back. These are the cervical curve (forward curve at the neck), the thoracic curve (a backward curve at the upper back), and the lumbar curve (an inward curve at the lower back). There are several devices that help correct and encourage good posture.
Corsets & Braces
According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH) certain walking abnormalities, such as condition called propulsive gait, results in a stooped rigid posture that causes the neck and head to lean forward.
The NIH says corrective corsets and braces include elastic bands and stiff supports with metal stays. This type of remedial equipment works to control the movement of the lumbar spine (lower back), provide support to the abdominal area while correcting posture.
Posture Corrective Braces
According to Posture Corrective Brace.com, a posture corrective brace not only improves overall posture but can be worn to correct back injuries that have had a negative impact on posture as well as helping to alleviate strain to the back. Most posture braces are designed with flexibility and comfort in mind. They are often made of spandex or cotton.
Back Support Brace
A back support brace can improve muscle strength in the lower and upper region of the back and help to keep posture steady. Posture Corrective Brace.com says when a back support brace is worn over a period of time it will help instill good posture habits that can be maintained even when the brace is not on
Support Braces
Support braces help prop back muscles by pulling the shoulders back to create a proper alignment that encourages good posture. These devices are frequently used by athletes in training and sometimes the elderly, to help hold up their back muscles.
Outlook/Prevention
The Mayo Clinic has several tips to help improve and maintain good posture. These include holding your chest high while keeping your back and shoulders loose. Also remember to pull in your buttocks and abdomen. Good posture also includes distributing your weight evenly on both feet and keeping your feet parallel.
