Back pain is one of the most common problems that people are complaining about today. The bigger it gets when it gets chronic. Taking preventive measures can not only make you feel better but also keep you out of a big problem in the future.
Even the slightest pain can bring much trouble. In the case of back pain, it is important to respond immediately. Without a cure, it will turn into a chronic problem that you will need to deal with for the rest of your life.
Dr Garima Anandani, the spine specialist, mentions that people who work in offices are more likely to suffer chronic back pain than people who have physically demanding jobs. Thus, if you belong to the risk group, it is high time to take preventive measures.
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Why Does My Back Hurt After Sitting for Too Long?
While working at an adjustable corner desk or sitting, you must care about your spine. Sitting or standing for an excessive amount of time brings not only fatigue but different types of pain. Back pain is one of them.
Why is back pain so serious?
- Affects brain functions;
- Contributes to mood disorders (depression, anxiety);
- Damages the ability to judge things correctly;
- Leads to sleeping difficulties;
- Reduces short-term memory;
- Weakens attention;
- Affects social skills;
- Damages relationship with family, friends, etc.
So why does a back hurt when sitting? There are many different reasons behind that:
- Bad posture.
- Being out of shape.
- Disc diseases.
- Medical conditions.
- Sciatica.
- Stress and overstretching.
How Do I Prevent Back Pain When Sitting?
Here is how you can improve your workplace for the comfort of your back:
- Avoid sitting on soft sofas, bean bags, and stiff-backed chairs.
- Alternate between sitting and standing.
- Customize your desk and chair so that they support the natural curve of your back (adjustable chairs and desks, keeping the monitor below eye level).
- Do not sit in one position for too long.
- Do not sit on the floor without back support.
- Remove armrests and keep them at a 90-degree angle.
- Sit straight and keep your shoulder level.
- Take breaks and do some exercises to weaken back muscles.
- Use chairs that have back support as they help to distribute pressure equally throughout the back.
Effective Ways to Relieve Back Pain at Work
What to do if you start feeling back pain in the workplace?
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- Improve your posture: keep your back aligned and straight, place your feet firmly on the floor, and avoid crossing your legs to prevent overstretching of muscles.
- Get up and move around at least every 30 minutes or once an hour to prevent feeling tense.
- Do stretches.
- Improve the ergonomics of your workplace.
- Adjust your desk and chair.
- Add lumbar support.
- Use pain relievers.
- Apply cold or heat.
Adjustments to your workplace can help you improve the comfort of your back. At the same time, you should also work on strengthening your back daily.