If the notion of correct posture brings to your mind an image of finishing school students walking the hallway with books stacked on their heads, you are not alone. Unfortunately, this old-fashioned image of posture's rightful place in society is now not only wrong, but dangerous. After all, the less seriously we take posture--particularly in the workplace--the more seriously we can be hurt.

In the past, of course, posture truly was largely an issue of etiquette and appearance. Those things still matter, particularly in a competitive workplace environment where the appearance of poise and confidence can make a difference. However, with the advent of an increasingly computer-intensive workday, the consequences of incorrect posture can be carpal tunnel syndrome, chronic pain, or worse.

Computers and Correct Posture

The problem, predictably, is one of our own making. In a relentless drive to create an ever more sedentary workplace where we can accomplish everything we need to without even walking down the hall, we have unwittingly exposed ourselves to the nearly silent danger of repetitive stress. While the pressures our joints and muscles endure while we sit at the computer may seem insignificant, the cumulative effect is anything but.

Fortunately, with proper education, anyone can now quickly develop better posture by implementing the techniques and exercises espoused by the industry's leading experts. Taking the time to do so may well represent the difference between years of relaxed computer use and years of recurring pain. With a choice that stark, it is no wonder that so many savvy workers have already begun to take matters into their own hands.