Can a Work Break Save You From Pain?

What Happens to Your Body When You Sit All Day?

Pain and extended periods of sitting are closely correlated. Being in a seated position puts a tremendous amount of pressure on your spine and invites poor posture. Due to this, people who sit frequently are more prone to experiencing back pain, neck pain, and shoulder pain amongst other areas. Lack of movement also contributes to stiff joints and tight, sore muscles.

Immobility

Immobility, associated with extended desk work, can contribute to muscle atrophy. Atrophy occurs when we fail to use our muscles enough resulting in loss of muscle mass and strength. This greatly increases the risk of sudden injury or chronic pain as the body is less prepared to withstand sudden movements or awkward bending and twisting.

Consider Your Work Environment

Ergonomics is another important aspect to be mindful of. The relationship between your desk and chair can have a major influence on your pain. It may be inviting a slouched or hunched over the position which could increase pressure on the spine and neck. Try to prevent from having rounded shoulders, extending your head and neck forward, slouching, or crossing your legs.

Move!

The best way to combat this? Get moving! Taking small but frequent breaks, if possible, to stretch, walk around and get some blood flow can make a big difference. This can be as simple as going to get water or coffee, just to give your body a change of pace. If you are able to incorporate any form of stretching into your work breaks, that also helps a great deal in preventing atrophy, stiffness, and soreness. It is especially important for desk workers to be physically active during off-hours. Utilize this time to stretch and exercise to ensure no muscle and joint function is lost as a result of inactivity at work.

SimpleTherapy can provide you with personalized structured stretches and exercises to combat the negative effects associated with sitting. Stretching and exercising is extremely important in order to maintain muscle and joint function, restore mobility and ease tension.