Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning we get a commission if you decide to make a purchase through our links, at no cost to you. Please read our disclosure for more info.
Last Updated on June 25, 2022 by Work In My Pajamas
Sitting at a desk for hours at a time might allow you to complete your work in a cool and cozy environment without having worrying about rushing to other locations for meeting and projects. However, doing so can have serious effects on your overall health. Not only can sitting for protracted periods of time cause blood clots in your legs, but it can negatively affect your spine.
In This Post:
Request Ergonomic Furniture
Fortunately, furniture companies have recognized the need for pieces that are friendlier to spines and other body parts kept in chairs for hours at a time. As a result, they have developed ergonomic furniture. These items are designed to provide you with greater support in your back. When the chairs at your office are taking a toll on your spine, speak with the appropriate individuals about providing you with better furniture.
Take Walks When Possible
In a busy office, you may not have the ability to get up and walk about whenever you want, but chances are, you are not chained to your desk for the entire duration of the work day. Whenever you have the chance to do so, try to take a walk. Even if you don’t have the ability to stroll outside to the corner store to pick up a coffee, stretching your legs on the way to the bathroom or the water fountain can give you an extra boost of energy as well as a chance to stretch your legs and back.
At-Desk Exercise
Moving around and changing up the way you sit, stand, and walk is important to maintain good spinal and overall health. Try a few minutes of arm stretches while you sit, and don’t neglect stretching your neck as well. You can also try some tiny ab crunches as you sit. Make sure your shoulders, neck, and head are aligned and lift your legs using your abdominals. Make it a point to vary your walks as well. Do some skips, hops, or lunges to get the blood flowing.
Medical Documentation
When you place a request for better furniture, you may find that you are met with rejection or hesitancy. Just because you have spine troubles does not mean that they originated from your work chair, but they could have. Your office may not understand how seriously the current chairs are affecting you, or how much your health has declined as a result. Speak with your doctor. Most lawyers recommend bringing in documentation before you discuss workers compensation issues since this can help to expedite the request.
Sitting in the same chair for hours can mean major trouble for your spine and other parts of your body, so seek to ameliorate these struggles as soon as possible. If you are vigilant and pay attention to your body, you won’t have to suffer for years to come.