Every job comes with its own set of health hazards, no matter the profession. This is not only referring to manual labor or other forms of highly physical work, but even office work. Just because the work is low impact doesn’t mean there aren’t significant health risks after an extended period of time. Let’s take a look at the health problems that can come with working in an office environment as well as some solutions to counteract the risks.
80 percent of the American workforce sits in a chair for the full work day, which to some, doesn’t seem like a big deal. However, recent studies have found that sitting for long periods of time can be just as hazardous to your health as smoking; weak muscles, tight joints, lower back strain, increased risk of disease (especially heart disease) and shortened life expectancy. To combat this, simply working out here and there or even daily isn’t enough. You have to get moving throughout the day. Here are some ways to do this:
- Take a one to three minute break every half hour to stand or walk
- Get a standing desk
- Always use the stairs
- Print items from the furthest printer from your desk
Working towards positive physical changes into your work day habits will go a long way toward improved health.
Chiropractors are the leading experts in the musculoskeletal system (this includes your nerves bones, muscles, cartilage, tendons, ligaments, joints, and other connective tissues). The musculoskeletal system can be compromised by poor posture and repetitive motions, which are extremely common in desk jobs. Poor posture and repetitive movements may result in pain and discomfort such as headaches, neck aches, shoulder strain and low back pain. The same nerves that cause these symptoms also supply your organs. If these nerves are stressed, the organs they supply can be affected. Getting a chiropractic adjustment can address these musculoskeletal issues and organ stresses directly, eliminating symptoms, relieving pain, and ensuring our organs are functioning at their best.
