Five Tips To Help Keep You Pain Free At Work.
5 Tips to keep you pain free at work.
The standard computer workstation can pose a minefield of ergonomic hazards, simply from the way we type, read off our monitor, answer the phone, or perform other required work functions. Millions of Australians suffer from painful work-related disorders, such as – carpal tunnel syndrome, low back pain, neck pain and headaches. These disorders account for between 56% and 65% of all occupational injuries.
Simple interventions such as physiotherapy and ergonomic work-place adjustments play a major role in keeping you healthy.
Here are a few basic tips to get you started!
- Move …Get up and stretch every 30 minutes or so. Having a stretch gives those muscles a break from getting too stiff. Researchers have found that activities like walking to the water cooler can have a cumulative effect on one’s cardiovascular fitness. Those stairs aren’t going to climb themselves! It’s an arduous task but your body will thank you.
- Sit up straight – Balanced neck and head posture (chin in). Make a conscious effort to press your bottom against the back of the chair, and avoid slumping or slouching, which places extra stress on the lumbar discs and other structures of the lower back.
- Support Yourself – Footrests, portable lumbar back supports, or even a towel or small pillow can be used while sitting in an office chair.
- Set up your environment – Have your monitor directly in front of you, with the top 1/3 of the screen eye level. The keyboard and the mouse should be close enough to prevent excessive reaching, which strains the shoulders and arms. Keep your elbows as close to your body as possible. Your chair’s backrest should support the natural curve of your lower back. Or consider a standing desk, which is becoming increasingly popular! Feet should be flat on the floor or on a footrest.
- Get in the Habit – These tips may feel awkward at first due to the conscious effort needed, however with time, it will become more comfortable and natural. Set up alarms on your phone every hour to remind you to take a break.
This information is sourced from: www.cochranelibrary.com/