Are workplaces to blame for bad posture?

(image: joshuahoffmanphoto)

New research released this month by the British Chiropractic Association shows that, in just two years, the incidence of bad posture appears to have risen at an alarming rate. Over half (56%) of the UK population currently believe they have a bad posture, compared to 38% in 2007, demonstrating a dramatic increase. It seems that slouching is really sweeping the nation.

The BCA is urging the nation to take proactive steps to improve its posture, as the UK back pain figures have reached an all time high. 72% of Brits questioned said they had suffered from back pain at some point, while nearly a third of the population is currently suffering, with London having the highest numbers of back pain sufferers.

And it seems resting on our laurels could be to blame. Using computers is a trigger for bad posture for many sufferers, and carrying heavy bags or lugging laptops affects people's stance just as much. I know that I slouch when sitting for long periods of time, and some people are regularly seated for 15 hours a day or more. This technology age is changing the way we spend our time, and employers are having to be increasingly aware of the health risks associated with this fact.

Tim Hutchful from the British Chiropractic Association comments: “Year on year our posture seems to be getting worse and back pain figures are rising, suggesting that the two go hand in hand. With the population in an apparent sedentary lifestyle spiral, we are fast becoming a nation of slouch potato, and it is taking a massive toll on our health.”

“Poor posture can have health implications and we want to work towards reducing the incidence of back pain. By making just a few lifestyle changes, people can help to improve their posture, take care of their spine and help themselves look and feel their best.”

The BCA has devised a simple three minute exercise routine called Straighten Up UK. This can be incorporated into our daily lives to help strengthen the spine and improve posture. The exercise routine is available to download from www.straightenupuk.org

Try it out next time you start to ache while sitting at your desk.

More like this...
3 things that make a great home office

A New HQ for fashion retailer New Look
Swiss architect scoops $100,000 Pritzker Prize