Healthy Back Maintenance

Healthy back maintenance is important, because poor posture can lead to pain and serious injury. The muscles in the back are unlike many other muscles in the body because they are almost always in use; therefore, healthy back maintenance is extremely important.


Healthy Back Maintenance: Maintain Your Curves

The muscles in the back are unlike many other muscles in your body because they are almost always in use. The muscles in your back:
 
  • Hold your torso in an upright position throughout your day
  • Assist you every time you pick something up, whether it's a pen or a concrete block
  • Support your posture while you sit in your chair.

 

Your back mucles even work at night when you sleep.

 

Three Curves of Your Back

Your back is composed of three natural curves that form an S-shape. When your three natural curves are properly aligned, your ears, shoulders, and hips are in a straight line. Without support from strong, flexible muscles, your back loses its three natural curves. Poor posture can lead to pain and serious injury.
 
(Click Lifting Techniques for Preventing Back Injuries for more information about healthy back maintenance.)
 
When you use good posture, your back is aligned in three natural curves supported by strong, flexible muscles. Good posture helps prevent back strain and pain.

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Written by/reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
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