When persons think about job-related back pain, they usually consider activities that include heavy lifting, a lot of standing, or too much walking around. However, sitting all day can be just as detrimental to your back.
If you have a sedentary job, here’s what you need to know about the effect it can have on your back and how to deal with it.
Why Sedentary Jobs Cause Back Pain
The main cause of back pain when you sit for a long time is poor posture. Experts say that when you don’t sit properly, it puts even more pressure on your back than standing. As you sit poorly, it affects not only your back but also your neck, hip flexors, hamstrings, and pelvis.
That strain is why many persons with sedentary jobs experience chronic pain in their back, neck, hips, and legs.
Over time, poor posture while sitting can damage spinal ligaments and discs, which leads to more pain as well as a restriction in movement.
If you have underlying conditions such as sciatica, degenerative disc disease, or back muscle strain, the pain will be worsened by extended sitting. It’s recommended that you put measures in place early to compensate for these conditions.
How To Combat Chronic Back Pain At Work
One major change you can make at work to alleviate back pain is moving around more often. Health experts suggest planning breaks from your work to take short walks around the office.
Even if a walk is not possible, shifting your position regularly can make a big difference. Of course, learning the correct way to sit while working is another important change. The right posture when sitting ensures that your head isn’t tilted too far forward, your back isn’t rounded, your shoulders are level, and your elbows aren’t too far from your body.