Corner or Doorway Stretch
As we age, one of the things that can really make us "look older" is our posture. Poor posture also contributes to many other problems including back pain, neck pain, and balance difficulties.
Here is my favorite exercise for addressing postural dysfunction: the corner or doorway stretch. Stand in a corner or doorway and place your elbows at 90 degrees from your body, with your elbows bent at 90 degrees as well. Step one foot forward, maintaining the normal curve in your lower back and not arching. As you step into the doorway or corner, you should feel a stretch in your pectorals/chest and maybe some in your upper back and calves. Hold fifteen seconds then repeat again stepping forward with your other foot.
This thirty second investment in improving your posture will pay off over time. Use this stretch during your workday and as an interruption to computer work to reduce postural stress.
Jim Flood, MSPT is co-owner of Personally Fit, a fitness/physical therapy center located in Rancho Bernardo. He has been in clinical practice for over 20 years. He can be reached at jflood@ personallyfitonline.com
