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Tips for Office Workers to Avoid Back Pain
Are you tired of dealing with constant back pain at your office desk after long hours? If so, you're not alone. Back pain is one of the most common sources of chronic pain, and it's something that our team of providers diagnose and treat often here at International Spine, Pain & Performance Center in Washington, D.C., and Arlington, Virginia.
Continue reading as our team highlights simple 一 yet effective 一 strategies to reduce the risk of back pain while working significantly.
Maintain proper posture
Proper posture refers to walking, sitting, standing, and lying down. When your body is in proper alignment, it functions smoothly. However, if any part of your spine is out of alignment, it can lead to pain anywhere in your spine. Your cervical spine (neck) and lumbar spine (lower back) are susceptible to pain related to poor posture while working at a desk.
Here are tips to improve your posture:
Straighten up
When sitting at your desk, ensure your back is aligned against the chair, and your shoulders relaxed. Keep your feet flat on the floor and your knees at a 90-degree angle. Avoid slouching or leaning forward for extended periods.
Prioritize workspace ergonomics
Adjust your chair height so that your elbows form a 90-degree angle when typing. Your computer screen should be at eye level, with the top third of the screen at your eye line to prevent strain on your neck and upper back.
Are you using a keyboard and mouse? Position your keyboard and mouse close enough to prevent overreaching. Your wrists should remain straight while typing, and your mouse should be easy to reach without straining.
Opt for an ergonomic chair that provides proper lumbar support. Consider using cushions or pillows to provide additional support where needed.
Take regular breaks
Set a timer to remind yourself to take short breaks every 30 minutes. Stand up, stretch, and walk around during these breaks to prevent stiffness and improve circulation.
Exercise and strengthen your core
Preventing back pain at the office might start in the gym. A strong core provides better support for your spine and helps alleviate back pain, but if your core is weak, you increase your risk of developing back pain.
Tip: incorporate core-strengthening exercises like planks into your regular workout routine.
Lift properly
Lifting technique is essential when you work in a factory or warehouse, but it applies to tasks at the office too. Whether picking up a box or a stack of papers, remember to bend your knees and use your leg muscles to lift rather than straining your back.
Stay hydrated and maintain a healthy diet
Believe it or not, what you eat and drink can greatly impact your spinal health.
Staying hydrated helps maintain the elasticity of your spinal discs, and dehydration can increase your pain sensitivity if you already have back pain. Maintaining a balanced diet rich in nutrients (like calcium and vitamin D) also supports overall spine health.
Manage stress
High-stress levels can contribute to muscle tension and back pain. Practice stress-reduction techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or mindfulness to relax your mind and body. If meetings are stressful, try adding some stress management practices before or after your meetings.
Sleep in a supportive position
If you sleep poorly and wake up with a stiff back, you might dread going to the office and sitting for hours. Stop the cycle of poor sleep and focus on good sleep hygiene. Ensure your mattress provides adequate support for your spine. Sleeping on your side with a pillow between your knees can help maintain proper spinal alignment, or sleep on your back with a pillow under your knees.
Tip: Avoid sleeping on your stomach. This position puts the most pressure on your spine.
Listen to your body
By following these proactive tips, you can minimize the risk of back pain and discomfort as an office worker. That being said, pay attention to your body. If you experience persistent back pain, even if you adopt all of these office-friendly tips, don't ignore it.
Contact us for a proper evaluation and guidance tailored to your situation. From physical therapy to lifestyle guidance to interventional pain management, our team is here to help you find relief from chronic back pain.
Ready to say goodbye to back pain? Call the location to schedule your appointment, or click here to get started.
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