The Secret University of Texas Medical Branch（德克萨斯大学医学分支的秘密）.pdf

The Secret... he American Physical Therapy Association would like to share a secret with you. It T can help you do more with less effort… breathe easier… feel great. The secret is about good posture, which can be an important part of the quality of your life. This brochure offers some valuable information about good posture, including steps for checking your own posture. Learn how good posture can help you walk proud and stand tall. © 1998 APTA All rights reserved. This brochure is not intended as a substitute for professional health care. “Stand up straight! Don’t slouch!” ow many times did you hear those scold- ing words while growing up? Maybe more H times than you would like to remember. Behind those long forgotten words lies a very valuable and surprisingly simple message: Good posture is important because it helps your body function at top speed. It promotes movement efficiency and endurance and contributes to an overall feeling of well-being. Good posture is also good prevention. If you have poor posture, your bones are not properly aligned, and your muscles, joints, and ligaments take more strain than nature intended. Faulty posture may cause you fatigue, muscular strain, and, in later stages, pain. Many individuals with chronic back pain can trace their problems to years of faulty postural habits. In addition, poor posture can affect the position and function of your vital organs, particularly those in the abdominal region. Good posture also contributes to good appear- ance; the person with good posture projects poise, confidence, and dignity. 1 The Anatomy of Good Posture o have good posture, it is essential that your back, muscles, and joints be in tip-top T shape. Your Back. A healthy back has three natural curves: a slight forward curve in the neck (