You spend about 25 percent of your week at work. So it makes sense to be sure your work environment isn’t making you ill. Chiropractors see plenty of patients who are in pain because of poor ergonomics at work. That’s true whether you live in Davie, Florida, or elsewhere.
Part of that is likely due to technology. It makes workers more productive, but it also lends itself to poor postural habits that lead to painful spinal misalignments and nerve impingements. Take the laptop computer, for example. It allows us to work from anywhere – but we’re also in a hunched position, trying to read a monitor that’s too low.
Here are some tips to encourage good posture, proper positioning – and a healthier body:
Your chair and desk should be at a proper height, and everything on your desk should be within easy reach.
Both feet should touch the floor. Crossing your legs makes your pelvis roll forward and “unstacks” your spine. Not only does it put pressure on your lower back, it forces you to lean slightly to one side. And that, in turn, unbalances your pelvis. Also, avoid high heels. They affect the body’s center of gravity, changing your entire body’s alignment.
Stretch your legs and move around for at least five minutes each hour. Ideally, take several 10- to 15-minute breaks, as well. Staying active lessens the painful buildup of lactic acid build up in your muscles and spine. Your body will thank you.
Your eyes should be at the same height as your computer monitor. Leaning forward can lead to headaches and neck pain. Do not hunch over or slouch – and never sit or stand with your head hanging forward.
Make use of footrests, lumbar back supports or even a towel or small pillow to help maintain good posture.
When typing, keep your wrists straight, your shoulders perpendicular to the floor and your forearms parallel to the floor. Your arms should be supported at all times, not just your wrists on your keypad.
If you talk on the phone a lot, use a headset. Balancing the phone between your shoulder and cheek leads to neck pain and headaches.
Regular exercise will keep your body conditioned while promoting good posture. In particular, back muscles should be about 30 percent stronger than abdominal muscles to help support the upper body and maintain good posture.
If you have postural problems or if you find yourself in pain despite your best efforts, chiropractic can help. Correct posture is at the core of Chiropractic BioPhysics (CBP), the most researched and results-oriented type of chiropractic care.
Chiropractic Spinal Hygiene Center, headed by Dr. Zev Mellman in Davie, Florida, is among only a handful of chiropractic centers specializing in CBP. At Chiropractic Spinal Hygiene Center, we devise a custom treatment plan to rehabilitate your spine.
If you live in the Davie, Florida, area, perhaps it’s time you embraced the benefits of chiropractic care. Contact us today for a complimentary chiropractic consultation to see if you qualify for corrective care.