Avoiding Back Problems from Office Chairs

Here at Sea Spine Orthopedic Institute One of the most common problems we see in our patients comes form sitting lengthy periods of time in their office chairs. Most office workers spend more time in an office chair than any other piece of furniture, except their bed. Sitting in an office chair can definitely cause low back pain or worsen an existing back or neck problem.

Studies have proven a relationship between job tasks and repetitive stress injuries, as the cause for stress in the back, neck, shoulders, arms legs, and pressure in the spinal discs. With time, poor sitting posture and workplace ergonomics can damage spinal structures and contribute to serious back problems.

There is no single type of office chair that is optimal for all people; everyone has different preferences for comfort. The office chair industry does however attempt to address some of the structural issues associated with prolonged sitting, and introduced office chairs that provide support for the lumbar and neck areas.

Any person who spends a lot of time sitting can prevent or reduce unnecessary lower back problems and muscle pain with a little care and caution. Something as simple as rearranging your desk or answering your phone can set off back pain.

At Sea Spine Orthopedic Institute we suggest the following when it comes to Office chair posture:

• Sit upright in the chair with the low back against the backrest and the shoulders touching the backrest.
• Give your back a chance by adjusting the height of the chair's backrest to support the natural inward curvature of your lower back and by using a lumbar pad.
• Dynamic sitting during the day, that's an elaborate way of saying don't stay in one position for a long time, your circulation and muscles will thank you.

Make sure that your office chair and work area are as comfortable as possible and will cause the least amount of stress to your spine.

No matter how comfortable one is in an office chair, a prolonged static position is not good for your back, and it’s a common source to muscle strain. To avoid keeping the back in one position for a long period, remember to: stand, stretch and walk for at least a minute or two every 45 minutes. Even a quick walk to the water cooler or bathroom will do. It is advisable to stand and stretch your muscles lightly whenever you have been sitting at the same spot for a long duration. This helps in enhancing the blood circulation. Also, ensure that you do some sort of physical activity, get up to stretch and walk around, even consider playing sports outside of work. 

It is easy to keep lower back problems away and if you or anyone you know is experiencing problems caused from poor posture, and sitting to long in your work place, please contact one of our many offices to set up an appointment.  Our highly qualified staff of nurses and surgeons would be more than happy to help you get back to a healthy active work lifestyle. 

If you're looking for professional and experienced high-rated Florida orthopedic surgeons, contact SeaSpine Orthopedic Institute today at    

(http://www.seaspineortho.com/) or call  866-816-ORTHO.

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