Many people now work from home permanently, so they may be moving a lot less than when they were commuting. If you haven't made adjustments to your setup and lifestyle changes, you may have developed neck or back pain. There are many contributing factors that you can easily control. Here are several chiropractor-approved tips to use so you avoid work-related discomfort.

How to Avoid Back and Neck Pain While Working From Home

1. Have a Dedicated Workspace

Sinking into the sofa on a laptop, laying on the bed, or sitting at the kitchen table aren’t the best ways to work. They don’t position your body properly, and staying in these unnatural positions while working on your laptop for hours can result in back pain. 

If you’re working from home indefinitely, set up a dedicated workspace. Purchase a desk to keep your computer monitor at eye level and a supportive chair that aligns your spine. 

2. Be Mindful of Posture

It’s easy to slouch or hunch over as the workday progresses, but doing so strains the back muscles around your spine because they’re struggling to support your body. Ultimately, muscles, ligaments, and tendons become inflamed, leading to chronic neck and back pain. 

Check your posture every half hour. Ensure your head is stacked atop a straight spine. If you're still hunching, take a look at your setup. Having your computer screen too low, for example, will cause you to continuously tilt your head down. But the issue can be solved by simply raising the monitor.

3. Move Around and Stretch

Your body isn’t meant to sit for long periods, so take time to move around and loosen up stiff muscles and joints. Stand up and stretch every hour or as needed. Less tension makes it easier to hold a proper posture. Consider a standing desk and spend the day alternating between your chair and standing.

If back pain is an issue, contact M.Y. Life Health Center of La Crosse, WI. This practice has welcomed patients since 2004 and provides holistic, full-body care. They can provide relief for neck and back pain, headaches, sports injuries, and sciatica. Call (608) 783-3040 to schedule an exam. Learn more about their practice online or by connecting on Facebook.