Using a computer at home does not mean that one is instantly sitting in an ergonomic workstation, as comfort is not a feature available in kitchen tables, couches, or beds. Unlike professional workstations equipped with standing desks and collapsible office chairs, most homes do not have ergonomic furniture. This results in poor postures coupled with prolonged sitting, which is detrimental to the musculoskeletal system and places undue stress on the spine and surrounding muscles.
Some of the factors that could contribute to having back and neck pains while working at home include.
Improperly Structured Workstation: Rotated spines and hunched shoulders indicate a poorly set-up workstation.
Too Much Time Spent Looking at Screens: Looking down at tablets and computers compresses the cervical spine
No physical activity: Prolonged sitting leads to muscle stiffness with minimal movement.
Muscular effects of psychological strain: Psychosocial stress inevitably brings about a stiff neck or shoulder.
To properly get rid of an ache in the back or neck, identifying the root cause is crucial, elaborates.
Signs Your Pain is Serious
Along with mild soreness once in a while, some symptoms may be more serious and should be concerning to you or any medical professional. An orthopedist may need to be consulted if these signs seem to apply: pain extending to the limbs, such as arms or legs, radiating annoyingly itching sensations, or numbness in the extremities, persistent pain for a duration of more than a few weeks, or pain that gets worse when staying still or moving.
Apart from muscle pull or other medical issues, our specialists offer advanced medical examination diagnostic services for orthopedic injuries, herniated discs, and more.
Ways To Alleviate Pain In The Neck And Back Include:
1) Modify your workstation: “Lying” chairs or beds that can be ergonomically friendly towards your back should be avoided. Your back and neck could be supported by an active workstation. Your eyes should be at the same level as the computer screen, alongside the mouse and keyboard in their respective comfort zones.
2) Correct sitting stance: Side sitting should be avoided where your feet do not rest on the flat ground. Sit in an upright and relaxed posture with your back straight. If needed, wedge a pillow behind the lower back.
3) Regular movement and stretching: Every 30 minutes, set a timer should be set as a reminder instead of hard work or studying. Rolling of the neck along with shoulder rolls is encouraged. Relaxing yoga helps to enhance flexibility and reduce stress
4. Apply cold or hot pads to ease muscle stiffness: When someone experiences intense pain or swelling, they typically go for the extreme.
5. Inflammation is effectively reduced by cold packs: These techniques may assist in alleviating some of the pain in the neck and back caused by poor posture.
When Natural Measures Are No Longer Sufficient
In case your self-care techniques do not provide results, assistance is necessary. According to Dr. Sean Thompson, treatment options are customized and may include both advanced nonsurgical and surgical approaches tailored to your requirements. Recommended Specialized Treatment Options:
Arthroscopic Surgery: This technique involves making a small cut and looking at the spine to fix it.
Joint Replacement: Done for chronic worsening pain due to advanced destruction of the joints.
Sports Injury Treatment: Applies to injuries developed gradually or suddenly because of physical activities.
Arthritis Treatment: Aimed at controlling inflammatory destruction of the joint, encouraging mobility of the joint, and facilitating overall recovery.
Located in NY and NJ, we treat neck or back pain systematically with the most advanced diagnostic methods and established treatment methods, and therapies.
In What Ways Does Dr. Sean Thompson Excel In Spine And Joint Care?
Dr. Sean Thompson’s warm and attentive approach is well-liked by many patients in the metropolitan areas of New York and New Jersey. He works with them at our clinics- Clifton, Jamaica Estates (Queens), Englewood, and New York City, where they offer comprehensive orthopaedic services all under one roof. We strive, through both conservative and surgical methods, to tailor our care to all patients through movement restoration and enhanced quality of life.
In addition, we also offer medical and therapy referrals for work-related physical stress injuries. Whether you are considering joint replacement or an arthroscopic procedure, or have persistent pain and need relief, our staff is ready to assist you.
Strategies to Reduce Neck or Back Pain When Working from Home
Preventative measures are equally as important as attending to pain. Consider this set of suggested methods that may help you get through your day.
Stay Active: Staying physically active improves stress levels, better posture, and even alleviates stress.
Do specific stretches: Ensure to cover the lower back, shoulders, and neck.
Take Short But Frequent Walks: These simple exercises can be sprinkled throughout the day.
Purchase ergonomic office chairs and desks: Investing in a good-quality chair or desk can pay off and be strategically helpful.
Manage Stress: Relax using meditation and breathwork.
With proper preventative care, the likelihood of developing chronic back or neck pain can be significantly minimized.
Conclusion: There’s Justification For Expecting Relief
Don’t allow remote working to negatively impact your mental health or posture. If the pain is located around the neck or spinal region, don’t hesitate to get help. Early intervention optimally enables patients to attain adequate results and restoration to their normal functioning activities in a pain-free state.
We accept patients from New York, NY, Jamaica Estates (Queens), Englewood, and Clifton, NJ at our clinics. Dr. Sean Thompson, Bone and Joint Surgeon. Through focused and attentive care, we are committed to offering you dependable, personalized orthopedic healthcare designed to address your specific needs.
To enjoy a pain-free life, book an appointment for consultation today.