Spinal Health While Working From Home

This year is certainly unique and has come with many major changes, including that most of us are now working from home. For many, it is a huge adjustment to go from working in an office to working from your living room. Whether you’re still getting used to your at-home workspace or are thriving while working remotely, these changes often lead to back, body, and neck pain. Here are our tips to keep your spine healthy while working from home.  

CREATE A COMFORTABLE WORKSTATION  

When we say create a comfortable workstation, we don’t mean your couch. As cushy as it is, it’s most likely not an ideal space for eight hours of work a day. Just as you created an ergonomic workspace in the office, the same rules apply at home. Make sure you have space to stand or sit at a table or desk (or both!) and your forearms should be parallel to the ground. If you are sitting, you also want your thighs to be parallel to the ground. Your seat should have plenty of back support but if it doesn’t, a simple rolled-up towel can provide the lumbar support you need. Keep your screen at eye level and be sure to check in with your posture regularly.  

STRETCH  

Sometimes you are so focused on your work that you forget up to get up and move your body. One way to remind yourself to keep moving is to set a timer for at least once an hour to get up, stretch, and move around. This helps get your blood moving and supplies healing nutrients and fresh oxygen throughout your body. Not only will this make you feel better, but it can also help prevent injury.      

GIVE YOURSELF A BREAK  

When you are working at the office, you probably take a number of mini-breaks throughout the day without even realizing it. How many times do you walk to the restroom, fill up your water bottle, or catch up with a co-worker? When you work from home, this is harder to do. Make a point to give your mind a break every now and then. Roll your shoulders, do a few neck rolls, and take a moment to practice a few stretches. You will feel better both physically and mentally.  

GET ADJUSTED AT SHIELDS CHIROPRACTIC  

Shields Chiropractic is your local Saginaw, MI chiropractor and your source for spinal health. We are all still facing challenges as we get adjusted to this new normal, and your spine could probably benefit from an adjustment, too! Our experienced chiropractors use effective, gentle, and targeted adjustments to keep your spine in proper alignment, which helps relieve pain and aids the body in proper function. To schedule an appointment with us or to learn more, just click here.

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