Tips on Navigating an Office Job with a Spine Specialist 

Do you work at a desk all year round? Do you find yourself sitting more often than not? Are you afraid that your back pain and neck pain are getting out of control? If so, then it’s probably time to see a spine specialist. Studies show that a sedentary nature is not fitting for a human. The natural character of the human species is to be moving, lifting, and consistently staying on the go. That’s why the human body rebels in pain when it’s not getting the appropriate movement and exercise it deserves. At the Florida Pain Center, a large portion of our clients is either from injuries or from office jobs. The reality is that you can’t quit your job, especially if you don’t want to. However, there are a few things that you can do to keep your back secure, and your pain to a minimum. 

1. Find Time to Stretch, Move, and Groove 

Whether it’s working out, stretching, or dancing your way through your career, some form of movement needs to be a part of your daily routine. Sitting for hours on end can cause a lot of pressure on your joints, and sitting also reduces blood flow to the body. To get the heart pumping, blood flowing, and your body in a happier place, set aside a few minutes every hour, or a few hours every day to let your body move. Think of your human vessel like that of dogs. If you let them outside, they want to run all over! While your mind may tell you that running seems like a lot, your body’s pain is telling you differently.  

2. Posture 

 Crossing your legs, while it may be comfortable, can actually un-align your spine, and cause severe damage to its overall stability. Crossing your legs while sitting also reduces blood flow to the lower extremities. Another common mistake that people make is sitting too far forward in their chairs. To avoid spine strain, sit to the back of the chair, and plant your feet firmly and parallel on the floor. If your office offers standing desks, take them up on it! Standing desks are excellent solutions, and they can even help you burn calories! 

3. Position the Monitor 

The average human skull weighs about 14 pounds. That’s a lot of weight to have pulling forward on your neck muscles and upper back muscles. You can ask for a monitor stand to bring your computer more parallel to your eyes, which will help you to keep your spine and neck straight. Other examples include looking down at your phone. To avoid bending forward too much, either spend less time on your device or start holding it higher. 

At the Florida Pain Center, we see office jobs take their toles on their employees. Not only is it an unnatural setting for the average human, but it also takes a lot of discipline to remember to stay safe. If these tips are coming to you too late, you may already be experiencing severe pain in your neck and back. At the Florida Pain Center, a spine specialist can help you find a treatment plan that will bring back some peace. Some of our most popular procedures, including trigger point injections, IDET, and PRP, are only an hour long, and minimally invasive. Call the Florida Pain Center today at (954) 447-5206.