Stand Up for Good Posture

Paying attention to proper posture when you stand can help reduce muscle strain that can cause back pain. Check your posture throughout the day and follow these guidelines:

• Tighten your abdominal (stomach) muscles to keep your back from bending and to support your back.

• Keep your ears, shoulders, and hips in a straight line.

• Keep your feet shoulder-width apart, with one foot placed slightly in front of the other. Bend your knees slightly.

• If you must stand for a long period of time, put one foot on a footrest that's five to eight inches high. Switch the foot you're resting on the footrest every five to 15 minutes.

• If you must stand on a concrete surface in your workplace, be sure to wear shoes with good support and cushioning. It's also helpful to stand on a rubber mat to ease pressure on your back.