For many of us, it’s not uncommon to spend more than 30 hours a week sitting at a desk, staring at a screen. If you find yourself leaving the office with an aching neck, heels or shoulders, you’re certainly not the minority. As you click through those spreadsheets (and online shopping websites!) you may be doing more damage to your body than you realize. Use these tips to avoid some of the most common work-related injuries.
Foot and heel pain
High heels can certainly dial up a work outfit, and who doesn’t love a cute pair of stilettos? Unfortunately, frequent use of high heels leads to increased pressure on the lower back and spine, gait instability and knee pain. To avoid long-term damage from heels, give your feet a rest and wear flats three or four days of the week. Never walk long distances in heels, and keep the heel to under two inches whenever possible. If your feet are feeling extra tired, soak them in warm water with Epsom salt before bed and use compression stockings to alleviate pressure and pain.
Eye strain
Computer Vision Syndrome is the term used to describe the blurry vision, dry eyes, headaches or visual fatigue felt after several hours using the computer or staring at a screen. Using an anti-glare screen can help reduce strain on the eyes and alleviate blurry vision associated with bright lights from a monitor or external lighting. Using a lubricating drop like Rohto can also help restore moisture to the eyes as reduced blinking and dry, sore eyes are common after using the computer for several hours.
Shoulder and neck pain
Research suggests that up to 63 percent of office workers will suffer from shoulder pain sometime this year. Persistent neck and shoulder pain can develop from repetitive use of the mouse, holding your head at a downward angle to look at your computer screen and hunching over to type or browse your Instagram feed. Alleviate this pain by propping your monitor up to eye level and using a massager to soothe aching muscles.
The Wahl Hot/Cold Massage Spot Therapy Vibrating Gel Pack is a great portable option you can toss in your bag and use at the office or on your way home. The massager is the first of its kind to have ceramic beads infused into the gel that heat up and cool down quickly along with a deep penetrating massage disc that can soothe aching and tight muscles. Utilizing heat and vibration on sore muscles can significantly reduce muscle tension and pain and improve circulation.
Don’t let your job cost you your health. Making these small changes can help avoid severe neck and spine injuries and may save you from chronic pain in the long run. Have you tried any of these tips? What are your favorite muscle relaxing techniques to get rid of work related aches and pains? Tweet me @ShilpiMD@SheKnows
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