Keeping Your Muscles And Joints Healthy In The Office
Working in an office can mean sitting for long periods of time, performing repetitive actions, and staring for hours at a computer, day in and day out. These sedentary habits can cause harm to your body. Your muscles and joints need to be used regularly, or you may suffer from some orthopedic problems in the future. The VCOM Sports & Osteopathic Medicine providers want to share a few tips for staying healthy at the office.
Movement
If your job has you sitting for long periods of time, there are things you can do to increase your daily movement.
- Stand up during phone calls.
- Instead of making a call, walk to the person for a face-to-face.
- Set a timer on your phone or computer that reminds you to get up every hour. Do a couple of stretches or take a few laps around the office or building.
- Take a short walk on your lunch break.
Neck, Back, Shoulders, and Eyes
Office life is notorious for causing aches and pains in the upper body. Pitching forward in front of a computer for hours on end endorses poor posture, tight muscles and eyestrain. These can lead to stiffness, strains, and headaches.
- Always sit straight up with shoulders back. Your feet should rest flat on the floor.
- Place your computer screen at eye level or slightly below. You shouldn’t have to strain your neck by looking up or down in order to see the screen. Place it at a comfortable distance so that you are not straining to read it.
- Your office chair should support your lower back. If it doesn’t, consider using a small lumbar pillow.
- Look away from your computer from time to time to avoid strain.
- Perform a few gentle neck circles every hour.
Using the above tips, it is possible to remain active and healthy in an office environment. Finding ways to move and practicing proper posture and positioning are the key to feeling good.
If you need guidance or information about how to stretch, or if you’re suffering from pain related to sedentary office habits, VCOM Sports & Osteopathic Medicine can help. Find methods that work for you and start improving your health! If you have any health issues or concerns and you would like to see a doctor, please visit us online to request an appointment. We look forward to seeing you!
