Correct posture: the most common sitting mistake that is damaging your back without you noticing

For a long time, it was assumed that keeping your back straight and your shoulders back was the key to good posture . The familiar admonition to "sit up straight!" has been with us for generations. However, Dr. Xand van Tulleken, a physician and BBC presenter, argues that this belief is outdated . Staying stiff and upright all day long doesn't guarantee well-being; on the contrary, it can become a harmful habit for your back.

The specialist emphasizes that posture isn't static, but rather changing . Staying in the same position for hours in front of a computer or on the couch increases the risk of lower back pain. "You can have the best chair, but if you spend eight hours sitting in it, you'll still have back pain," he warned on Morning Live. The key is to move around, get up frequently, and do simple stretches that relax your muscles.

Van Tulleken also points out that the key isn't rigidity, but rather body strength . Basic exercises, such as raising your arms or rotating your neck, can instantly release tension . Disciplines such as Pilates or yoga help strengthen the core and lower back, helping the body support itself. The doctor also warns that some posture correctors can restrict movement , causing the opposite effect.

Finally, posture is linked to psychological and emotional factors . Stress or work pressure can be reflected in rounded shoulders and recurring tension , beyond desk ergonomics. The National Health Service (NHS) recommends staying active, combining exercise with stretching, and seeing a doctor if the pain doesn't improve within a few weeks . In short, taking care of your back requires not only correcting the way you sit, but also reviewing your daily habits and the way you approach your routine .