Health Tip: The Importance of Good Posture

It can help you feel better

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(HealthDay News) -- Posture is important in everything you do. Bad posture can lead to back pain, and even make you feel more tired than usual.

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The American Physical Therapy Association offers these guidelines to help you maintain good posture:

• When standing, your body should be vertically aligned, with a straight spine and head, and a straight line from your ankles to your knees, hips, shoulders and ears.
• Keep your shoulders and hips level, and knees facing straight ahead when you walk or stand.
• There should be a slight inward curve to your lower back when standing.
• Stand with your abdomen flat.
• When you sit, use the back of the chair for support, and keep your feet on the floor.
• Sit up straight, with your head up. Don't lean forward.

-- Diana Kohnle