Archive for the ‘November 2011’ Category

A majority of the aches and pains that my patients present with often start with improper ergonomics and posture during our normal activities.  Our bodies were not built to sit at computers, stand at workstations or to ride in a truck for hours at end.  We were built to be hunters and gatherers — exercising our core as we provided needed resources for our families.  Simple changes to your workstation or home office may make a big difference in how you feel and reduce your risk for muscle and/or joint injuries.

The government has a great resource for ergonomics and posture: the OSHA’s Ergonomic Solutions website.  It has numerous diagrams and tips to use as you analyze your workstation at home or the office.  One tip that I find is very useful is making sure there is not clutter under your desk so that your legs can fit underneath properly.  I don’t know how many offices I have seen with things shoved underneath desks and people sitting far away from their keyboard to compensate.

For those who spend a lot of time driving in the car, it’s important to make sure your seat is adjusted so that your back is properly supported to reduce the risk of low back or hip pain.  Many patients have their seats slanted back too far and their lower and upper backs are not supported.  This forces them to slouch forward to reach the steering wheel.  Another common mistake is leaning on the center console of the car and resting your hand on the gear shift.  This position may be comfortable for the first few minutes, sitting for hours at an angle drives your back crazy.

As you develop pain, it’s important to consult a chiropractic physician who evaluates your ergonomics to see if it might be a partial cause of your discomfort.  Correction of your daily posture along with a treatment plan customized to help you loosen up areas that are tight and strengthen those that are weak will help you acheive long-term freedom from pain.