If you have ever worked in an office, chances are high that you have experienced back pain to some degree. In fact, back pain is the most common reason employees in America call in sick. It is also of the most prominent causes of disability claims in the United States. Due to technology and the workforce demands associated with its development, many jobs in the U.S. are related to computers in some fashion. Sitting at a computer for extended periods of time can cause stiffness and aching in the lumbar region. History of the United States workforce infers that humans have not been accustomed to the extent of sedentary behavior present in today’s work environment. More prevalent industrial careers involved factory work, where employees may stand at an assembly line for the entire duration of their day. With this evolution in the workforce, how do modern day employees combat back pain? Well, if your job requires time spent in an office, chances are you have experienced extended periods of uninterrupted sitting. If you sit with poor posture as many Americans do, the negative effects of extensive sitting may be increased. Here are some tips to prevent back pain:
- Research has indicated sitting for between 60-90 minutes uninterrupted can decrease your expected lifespan. It is recommended to take a brief walk every 45 minutes or so to resist the risk of back injury and maintain a healthy lifestyle. Improper back and head position can place a disproportionate amount of stress on your spine or neck. Given the impact the spine has with the central nervous system, additional injuries can emerge.
- Diet can also play a role in preventing back injury. Certain oils, fish, and nuts can help reduce inflammation. Eat a diet with many different fruits, vegetables, and even drinks like tea, because they contain antioxidants that are able to decrease inflammation as well.
- Of course, there is no substitute for exercise. Exercising on a regular basis can increase cardiovascular health which can result in better circulation of blood throughout the body. Certain exercise activities can target the muscle groups in your back and abdomen responsible for maintaining a strong, stable posture. Proper posture can balance and evenly distribute strain throughout the body, boosting the longevity of your joints.
Contact a Lawyer
Even though there are techniques and procedures to help proactively treat back pain, including seeing a back pain doctor Bethesda trusts, sometimes they aren’t enough. Occasionally, your working conditions may inevitably result in injury due to negligence of your employer. If you feel that your back pain is the result of a negligent party, contact a personal injury lawyer and explain the situation. The lawyer may be able to develop a claim and you could be awarded compensation as a result of the injury.
Thank you to our friends and contributors at the Pain Arthritis Relief Center for their insight into chiropractic care and back pain.
