Battling Back Pain, The Most Potent Threat In The Workplace

When somebody says work-related illness, what do you think of? Stress? Injuries caused by slips and trips? Repetitive strain injury? All of these are common ailments. But back pain is by far the most potent threat in the workplace. More people have time off sick because of back pain than any other illness. If you’re one of the millions of people who struggle with back pain in the world, here are some tips you may find useful.

Correct your posture

Bad posture is the leading cause of work-related back pain. Your posture relates to the alignment of your spine when you’re sitting or standing. Ideally, your spine should be straight. If it’s curved or you’re slouching, this applies increased pressure to the muscles in your back. You can probably feel a release if you go from a slumped position to sitting up with your shoulders back and your head held high.

Back pain is particularly common in people who spend long periods of time sitting at a desk. If you have a sedentary job, there are steps you can take to protect your back at work. If you don’t already have an adjustable chair, speak to your employer. You should be able to reach your keyboard without stretching forwards. It’s also important that your chair offers support for your spine, particularly the lumbar vertebrae. You may also find it useful to switch between a normal desk and a standing desk. Standing up applies much less pressure to your back than sitting down.

Exercise and conditioning

Exercising with back pain can be tricky. However, if you can find the right types of exercise, you can help to condition the muscles and prevent further damage. Ask your doctor about suitable forms of exercise if you already struggle with discomfort. Many people find swimming beneficial, as the water supports your body while you move. Yoga may also be helpful. If you visit a physical therapist, they will be able to show you specific exercises that will strengthen your back.

Alternative therapies

If you have a short-term issue, painkillers and ice packs can often provide a solution. However, if you have chronic back pain, you may want to consider other options. Alternative therapies, such as chiropractic and osteopathy may help to alleviate pain. These therapies can be used instead of or alongside medical treatments. They use hands-on techniques to reduce muscle tension and promote healing. If you’re interested, you can use the Internet to find a chiropractor or ask your doctor for recommendations. Some people find that alternative treatments work really well. Others prefer more traditional techniques.

Back pain is a very common issue. It haunts employers all over the world and brings misery to millions of workers. The good news is that there are measures you can take to try and avoid health issues. Exercise frequently, and always make sure your posture is correct. Speak to your boss if you feel that you would benefit from new equipment, such as a chair with additional lower back support. If you have persistent pain, seek advice from your doctor or find out more about alternative remedies.