The Carlton Connection

Watch Your Back: Tips for Improving Back Health at Work

carlton staffing improve back health at work

Have you been experiencing back pain and muscle stiffness? Take the time to reconsider your routine and prevent these pains from becoming a more chronic ailment. Whether you’re working a desk job or doing manual labor, back issues can become a big issue – one of the leading causes of missed work days.

While most people will experience back pain at some point in their lives, there are many steps one can take to reduce the harmful effects of poor posture and back strain. If you’ve been a victim of back pain, it’s time to be more proactive about your health in the workplace. Here are some key practices to start following today.

Create Ergonomic Work Conditions

While a desk and chair set-up at work may not seem like a contributor to back issues, neglecting to have an ergonomic setup can create more harm than good.

To protect your back while you work, make sure your chair is supporting the natural curve of your spine; you can do this with either a rolled towel against your back or a lumbar pillow. You’ll also want to adjust the height of your chair so that your feet are flat on the floor and your knees are at a 90-degree angle.

Lastly, your computer should be facing you at eye-level, so you don’t have to bend your neck up or down to view the screen.

Maintain Good Posture

Back pain typically doesn’t happen overnight; it is usually the result of months and even years of poor posture. Exhibiting proper posture in the workplace is one of the most powerful ways you can combat pain and avoid putting unnecessary strain on your back.

In addition to making the ergonomic adjustments outlined above, engaging in regular exercise is key to strengthening your back and muscle tone. If you’re new to strength training, consider using a trainer to get you started so you don’t hurt yourself.

Take Frequent Breaks

Muscle and joint pain and stiffness often results from keeping your body in the same position for extended periods of time. Whether you have a desk job or a physically-demanding role, it’s critical to take frequent breaks throughout the work day to move around. Taking short micro-breaks every hour to get up and use the restroom, get a glass of water or simply stretch is essential for combatting the negative effects of sitting or standing in place for too long.

A commitment to health and wellness doesn’t stop at home. In fact, it’s even more important to maintain healthy practices at work, as it’s where you likely spend most of your time. Being mindful of the tips above during the workday will help you achieve greater health and feel your best in the process!

Carlton Staffing has remained committed to helping hardworking job-seekers in Houston, Dallas and Fort Worth for over 30 years. If you’re seeking new employment, contact Carlton Staffing and let our team help you find your next opportunity!

carlton staffing build a career

Next:

Previous:

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *