Postural dysfunction is becoming more prevalent with more and more people sitting all day at a computer. Most of us have fair sitting posture at best, even if we have an ergonomically designed chair, since our work station and computer heights are oftentimes too high or low. This leads to a significant increase in stress in the low back from sitting slouched, and in the neck from sitting with our heads too far forward. Over time, our postural muscles become weaker from under-use, while our ligaments become overstretched, causing permanent tissue damage.

At PDR, an essential part of our program - which occurs within the first two weeks of therapy - is postural retraining and ergonomics education, especially for those patients with desk jobs. The key to reducing stress in our spine is restoration of its natural curves, which includes making sure our work station is optimally set up to facilitate good posture. In addition, mid back (scapular) stabilization and strengthening exercises are instructed as part of our exclusive PDR Swiss ball circuit training program to enable you to sit with proper posture for longer periods of time without fatigue or aggravation in the muscles of the spine (click on Swiss ball for more information about this program). Finally, MedX rehabilitation is used to significantly increase strength and stability of the specific muscles of the neck and low back, which also helps to maintain good posture.