When you work in an office where you have convenient access to a desk, you may find yourself sitting more frequently than you might like. Over time, you may even develop back or neck pain, which can take a toll on your daily life. Fortunately, physical therapy can help you to prevent and alleviate pain. Here is a little more information about the pain you may experience if you sit all day.

How Does a Desk Job Cause Pain? 

When you are sitting, your back is under as much as 90% more pressure than it is when you are standing, mainly because many of your muscles aren’t activated and supporting the spine as they should. Sitting for long periods of time can also cause the hip flexors to shorten, which can result in anterior pelvis tilt, making it appear as if people have a bigger stomach than they actually do. 

If you aren’t sitting in an ergonomic position and you have to look down to view your computer screen, you may also experience neck pain. Tilting your neck to hold a phone against your ear can also cause muscle strain and discomfort. 

How Can Physical Therapy Help?

Fortunately, physical therapists offer targeted exercises designed to strengthen back and neck muscles, reducing back and muscle pain. Physical therapists can also offer stretches and other suggestions to alleviate stiffness and to prevent discomfort, making it possible to mask an ongoing problem. For instance, if you are in constant pain due to a back injury, going to physical therapy could make it possible to go about your normal day without having anyone ask about your condition.  

How Can You Prevent Pain at Work? 

One of the best ways to prevent neck and back pain is by staying active and taking care of your body. Regular exercise helps the body to support itself, and eating a healthy diet helps to keep extra weight off, which could shift your center of gravity and result in pain. You should also do what you can to stay active at work, taking walking breaks and using the stairs whenever you can. 

If you are struggling with back pain, do what you can to move around your office and give Evergreen Pain Management & Rehabilitation Center in Sheffield, OH, a call. Since their inception, they have been helping with chiropractic care, lifestyle advice, and nutritional counseling, helping people to live their best lives. Visit their website to learn more about what they can offer, or give their office a call at (440) 240-9111.