Millions of people experience back pain as a result of their work environment. Sitting at your desk for hours at a time, lifting heavy objects without appropriate equipment are two of the most common reasons why so many people visit our Atlanta Orthopedic Doctors.
There are basic ways you can go through your workday without experiencing back pain. The Orthopedic Doctors at AICA Orthopedics have three secrets to a pain-free work day to help keep you motivated and in charge.
Avoid Back Pain At Work
Many people think that posture focuses on how well your body is aligned when standing upright. This is not true. The position you hold while sitting is also important, especially for those who are required to sit for several hours each day.
Working with computers can cause you to strain your neck by keeping it slightly tilted downward. Maintaining this position causes misalignments to develop in the spine, which essentially creates separation between the neck and the rest of the spinal column. If left untreated, permanent deformities can occur, along with potential fractures.
The chair that you use at work can influence your sitting posture. If possible, try to keep your feet planted flat on the floor. If you are unable to, consider using some object like a cardboard box. Try to keep your knees at a 90-degree angle to keep your back healthy.
Lift Heavy Objects With Care
Those who are required to lift heavy objects at work should keep their posture and positioning in mind at all times. Planning each lift is critical for avoiding mistakes that cause you to shift your momentum or lose your balance suddenly.
Keep your feet at shoulder width when attempting to lift something. Lift up using your legs and keep the object as close to your chest as you can. Do not twist your hips or back and make sure to avoid pulling heavy materials. Instead, push them to avoid back injuries or torn muscles.
Give Yourself A Break
If you sit for hours at a time or spend your workday lifting heavy objects, it’s important to take a break every so often. Try to step away from your responsibilities for 5 to 10 minutes each hour. Stretch out, go for a brief walk, or climb nearby stairs to keep your body active and loose.
Contact AICA Orthopedics For Long-Term Back Pain Relief
AICA Orthopedics is Atlanta’s primary center for back pain relief, helping thousands of residents overcome chronic pain each year. Contact or call us today to schedule an appointment for permanent back pain relief – (404) 855-2141.
