Are you chained to your desk? Do you often eat lunch in front of your computer? Do you often lose track of time while working? Then you may be a modern desk jockey. To be blatantly honest, sitting is bad for you. Our anatomy is designed for movement and activity, sitting causes atrophy and soreness. In today’s world, we have turned sitting into a profession.
Let’s do a little introspection. How much time you spend sitting on a daily basis? First consider work – do you sit at work for the majority of the time? Second, after work, do you sit the majority of the evening? Hmmm if there is a pattern here, keep reading!
Unhealthy habits:
- Sitting too long – this can inhibit blood circulation and lead to neck, joint and severe back pain.
- Slouching forward – weak back and shoulder muscle can cause the upper body to slouch and lean forward straining the shoulder and neck.
- Looking downward at a computer – when a computer screen is below eye level it encourages dropping the neck forcing it out of alignment, which can cause upper back and neck pain.
- Crossing legs for too long – this causes the hips and spine out of alignment, causing back pain.
Don’t worry we can help. IWC has compiled a list of ways to keep you from being a modern desk jockey:
- No Crossing! Uncross your legs and keep your feet flat! Try a footrest under your desk.
- See Straight! Elevate your computer screen to eye level.
- Get Hip! Make sure you are equally distributing your weight between your hips – no leaning to either side.
- No Slumping! If you pull your shoulder blades back, they will come in line with your spine. Retrain your body – you can do it.
- Move it! Take periodic breaks, stand up, walk around and move your body.
- Stretch! While you are still sitting down, do several arm, shoulder and neck stretches
- Breathe! Deep breathing will oxygenate your body and even lower blood pressure.
- Drink! Drink plenty of water to keep hydrated.
- Make the most of it! Make the most of your lunch break by taking a mental break. Go outside, take a walk, visualize yourself on a beach, read a book or meditate.
If you are experiencing back pain, shoulder pain and neck pain, call for an appointment today!