We’re a nation of desk sitters, working away at keyboards and perched on chairs for hours on end, so it’s no wonder we’re experiencing back and neck pain without really doing much. Just the act of doing a 9-5 can cause considerable discomfort and really it’s down to static posture, repetitive movements and poor seating.
Last year, back problems were the biggest cause of time off work in the UK, with it placing second for most common reason for a visit to the doctor. Studies have shown that 4 out of 5 of us will suffer with some degree of back pain in our lives! Data also showed that in the majority of cases, the back pain wasn’t due to a traumatic injury or chronic illness but to everyday activities that have culminated over the months or years. So beware, as there is very little warning!
No matter how comfortable your office chair is you should be standing and stretching at least every 45 minutes. If you wait for the discomfort to set in then it’s too late! Set yourself appointment reminders or an alarm on your mobile to encourage you to stand for a few seconds. In sitting, 50% of the body weight is concentrated in the lower back so it’s imperative this weight is off loaded frequently or damage will occur.
There are a number of ways that you can rectify your daily habits to relieve some of your neck and back pain or prevent it from occurring. There are some useful information leaflets available from our website; you are free to print them off and pass them around the office.
If you’re suffering from back or neck pain and think physiotherapy could benefit you, contact us today.
Telephone 0161 832 8797 or visit our website at http://advancephysio.com/ for the best physiotherapy in Manchester.
