Why Offices Cause Back Pain in Vacaville

The knowledge we currently have about the causes of back pain continues to change and update as we start to learn more about the back and spine in Vacaville. Technological advancements have allowed us to get better images of the spine and back muscles, while also learning the different factors that cause back pain. One thing that science has taught us is that technology can be considered a possible cause.

It was thought that office workers are less prone to back pain compared to hard laborers and blue-collar workers. For that reason, it was believed that heavy physical activity is the main work-related cause of back pain. However, recent data has shown that sitting in a hunched position over a computer all day long is a legitimate cause as well.

The science behind this is divided yet many physicians believe that sedentary office workers could be at high risk for back pain compared to those who are working physically demanding jobs. However, the truth is that both jobs are at high risk, but they have different reasons. Having too much physical activity and too much inactivity can both make a person experience back pain.

Poor posture in Vacaville

One of the main reasons why your office setup is giving you back pain is because of an ineffective chair or your own poor posture. Sitting with a curved spine and drooping shoulders for a long time can make your spine become accustomed to that misaligned position. This won't send pain signals that are supposed to let you know that the position is uncomfortable. Once your body is no longer in this position, that's when the pain starts.

Lack of breaks

Having a job means that you have work to do but sitting for too long can cause back pain. This lengthy time for sitting will give you difficulties in changing positions, which means that you are likely to maintain that uncomfortable position especially if it's been like that without taking breaks.

It is recommended that those who spend most of their day sitting at work should at least take a five-minute break every hour. If your boss is always watching, you can just stand up and walk around the office for a few moments. When taking a phone call, you can stand up and take this moment to stretch your neck and back muscles.

Poor ergonomics

One of the things that technology has taught us is the importance of having office equipment be convenient for the human body. Traditional office equipment like chairs and desks are made in a way that is intended to hold, not mold, the human body. The good news is that more ergonomically office equipment is made available to help reduce office-related back pain.

There are chairs that now provide additional lumbar support and help maintain proper posture or therapeutic pillows that can support the neck or lower back. These can help relieve tension while also making sitting more bearable. There are also keyboards and mouse that maintains alignment of the spine and place the wrists in a comfortable position for the body.

All these adjustments for your daily office routine are beneficial and you should implement them to lessen the progress of your back pain. If you need more help, don't hesitate to visit our office at Absolute Integrative Physical Medicine in Vacaville, CA. Just give us a call at (707) 474-5688 to set up an appointment today!