Is your desk job a pain in the neck…or back…or shoulder?  Firstly, this easy exercise can help you maintain proper upper body posture.  Secondly, regular chiropractic maintenance care can relieve stresses on your body, correct problems before they fully develop, and keep you feeling your best.

Brugger’s Postural Relief Exercise is easy.  It helps stretch out commonly tight muscles.  Also, it strengthens commonly under-utilized muscles.  You should perform this stretch for 10-20 seconds any time you find yourself slouching.  Over time, you will build muscle memory.  Then this correct, upright posture will become second nature.

Brugger’s Postural Relief Exercise – an easy shortcut to better posture

Step 1: While seated, keep your upper body/neck as tall and straight as possible.  Also, keep your eyes level–don’t lift your chin or look up.

Step 2: Hold your arms out to the side, palms facing forward.

Step 3: Perform a chin tuck.  This movement is accomplished by pulling your chin straight back, keeping your eyes and head level.

Step 4: Draw your shoulder blades (scapula) together.  Pretend that you are trying to pinch a pencil between them.

Step 5: Hold the position for 10-20 seconds,  then relax.

You can do it again after 30 seconds of rest time if desired.

If your job involves a lot of heavy lifting, you’re probably already aware of the risk of injury.  If your job involves remaining seated for long periods of time, you might not realize that desk work carries risks of its own.  Tension, improper posture, and under-utilized muscles can lead to problems down the road.  In conclusion, your chiropractor can help.

Contact Shepard Chiropractic Centre at 847-7172 or 635-8182 for more information and to make your appointment.