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If you are like 86% of Americans, your job consists of your butt firmly being planted to your chair. Sitting too much can be bad for your health, and if you sit with poor posture you could be doubling down on these effects.

Proper posture is all about keeping your body in a position which places minimal stress on your joints; whether you are standing, sitting, or laying down. Here are three ways to tell if your posture is not up to par.

Sign #1: Ongoing back and neck pain.

Months and years of poor posture will almost inevitably lead to back and neck pain. If you have tightness, stiffness, or soreness in your back or neck that will not go away, there is a good chance it is being caused by bad posture.

Sign #2: You have forward head carriage or a hunch back.

There are several physical signs of poor posture, but the hunch back and forward neck carriage are two of the most common. “Hunch back” occurs when there is an exaggerated forward rounding of the upper back. “Forward head carriage” is when your head leans forward, putting excessive stress on the joints in your neck. Generally, your ear hole should align directly over the middle of your shoulder for a healthy posture.

Sign #3: You fail the wall test.

The wall test is a quick and easy way to test your posture in 30 seconds or less. It’s simple: stand against a wall with about six inches of space between your heels and the wall. If you have good posture, your head, shoulders, and buttox will make contact with the wall, with about two inches of space between your lower back and your neck.

Poor posture can lead to symptoms such as back and neck pain, joint stiffness, and muscle strains. If you are affected by any of these conditions, contact the orthopedic experts at OSG. With state-of-the-art facilities and a knowledgeable staff, we have everything you need to manage and eliminate your daily pains. If you live in the Fairfield County area, call us today to schedule an appointment at (203) 337-2600.