Healthy Spine Habits to Practice While Working
A key cause of declining productivity at work is neck and back pain. Working from home or in an office for long periods can harm your body and ultimately affect your mental health.
Understanding Spinal Pain
Your spine is your body’s central support system, linking together the skeleton and keeping you upright. Any disturbance in your spine may cause pain in your muscles and ligaments. So, it’s vital to practice healthy spine habits regularly to prevent injury and pain.
Preventing Neck and Back Pain at Work
If you’re sitting for long periods, there are certain factors to consider to avoid neck or back pain. These factors include:
- Correct Your Posture
Correcting and maintaining good posture is essential to building back strength and preventing spinal pain. The ideal posture while sitting includes your head and shoulders facing forward, your feet flat in front of you (at shoulder width), and your knees at a 90-degree angle. While standing, correct any slouching to prevent spinal misalignment.
- Adjust Your Workspace
In many instances, your workspace may be the cause of your neck or back pain. Ergonomic chairs conform to the natural shape of your spine, allowing for better upper body support and pain prevention. Apart from a great chair, your laptop or computer should be at eye level to prevent unnecessary neck strain.
- Daily Exercise
Daily stretching followed by exercise boosts flexibility and muscle strength. Maintaining muscle strength is essential to a healthy spine.
- Take Breaks
Hourly breaks from sitting promote better spine health by stretching and warming up your muscles and joints. Remember to take out five minutes per hour to stand up and walk around the office for a healthier spine.
If you’re suffering from chronic neck or back pain that hasn’t improved after utilizing the recommendations in this article, Florida Wellness Medical Group can help. Our specialists are trained in treating moderate to severe cases of muscle pain, as well as chiropractic care for spinal misalignment. Contact us to schedule a consultation!