Posture and symmetry

Steven Weiniger

People who move unevenly suffer more back pain, plus they look older than their age. Asymmetry will reveal itself when the left and right side of your body looks lopsided on a posture assessment picture, which also means you’re body is not moving the same on both sides. This is a problem because once your muscles are trained to move differently on the left versus the right, they keep moving that way, locking in the adapted movement pattern.

Here’s some easy changes to retrain your posture towards symmetry.

• If you carry a purse or bag, put it on the other shoulder or carry it in the other hand. It will probably feel weird and unnatural… do it anyway. The point is shifting your torso in the opposite direction.
• If you keep a wallet in your hip pocket, put it on the other side. The point is shifting your pelvis back towards level. Also try carrying it in a front pocket or jacket.
• Are you a runner or a walker with a favorite route? Walk on the other side of the street to even out how your feet hit the slope of the street (only if it’s safe to do so, and watch for traffic!). A track at a park or the high school is a great option for level ground, but remember to periodically reverse direction so you’re not always turning to the left (or right).
  

Bottom line: Your body gets better at moving how you train it to move. Become aware of how you stand and move, and think symmetry.

Article from Posture Month