What Is The Posture Pole My Chiropractor Gave Me?
Last updated on December 7, 2022
Your posture is like a small window to the spine. Poor posture, including forward head carriage can correlate to distortions in the spinal alignment.The most important factor in avoiding and correcting poor posture and forward head carriage is through education and awareness. Having poor posture may lead to pain or poor overall health as it can place prolonged stress in the body that can cause symptoms and signs such as:
- Neck and shoulder stiffness/tightnessÂ
- Consistent/Frequent headaches Â
- High blood pressureÂ
- TMJ painÂ
- Mid and lower back painÂ
- Postural distortion (loss of overall height)Â
- Restricted movementÂ
- Pain with movementÂ
- Increased fatigue/low energyÂ
- Loss of balanceÂ
- Dizziness/Vertigo
- At school or work (sitting at a desk for a long period of time)Â
- When driving (head is not resting on the head rest)Â
- Sitting, standing or walkingÂ
- Looking at devices such as computers, phones, laptops or tablets
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That is why a prescribed posture pole may help improve your posture for your daily activities. You only need to lay on it for 15 minutes per day.
What Is a Posture Pole?
A posture pole is a long half foam roller that is designed to fit along the length of your spine.
How To Use A Posture Pole
It is recommended to have the posture pole on the floor vertically then lay on top of it. Place it along the length of your spine, all the way up to the back of your head and down to your tailbone. Have your arms out to the sides with your palm facing up and both of your knees bent and feet flat on the floor. This is a great time to de-stress, without the use of phones/devices. Try using this time to focus on breathing techniques or meditation for more body benefits.
How Long To Lay On The Posture Pole For & How Often?
To get used to the exercise, start by using the posture pole 2 times per day for 5 minutes at a time. Gradually increase this to 15 minutes per day once there is no pain or discomfort present. This exercise may be best done just before you go to bed, to undo the day’s pressure of gravity and stress. You may even notice a difference with your sleep.
What Are The Benefits Of Using a Posture Pole?
Using a posture pole may help open up the shoulder and chest region. As you are laying on the pole it may help with encouraging proper diaphragm breathing and relaxation of postural muscles.
Where Do I Buy a Posture Pole?
One of the chiropractors at Ripple Chiropractic can go through a thorough examination to see if you are suited for a posture pole. They are generally sold at each clinic.