Quarantine can be a literal pain.
If you noticed any aches in your neck or back after spending more time at home, you’re not alone. Poor posture from spending too much time slouching over your laptop or sprawled out on your coach is common. Clocking in from home may lead to an increase in comfort but can lead to a decrease in daily activity.
Bad posture can lead to several uncomfortable health issues. Of these, lower back pain, neck pain and upper back and shoulder tightness are the most common.
If left untreated, these conditions can lead to poor circulation, impaired lung function, poor digestion and even an increased risk in cardiovascular disease.
Chiropractors recommend making an effort to sit with proper posture during your work-day to ensure optimal health. To ensure proper alignment while sitting:
- Keep both feet flat on the floor (or on a footrest, if they don’t reach) and avoid crossing your legs.
- Your ankles should be in front of your knees.
- Keep a small gap between the back of your knees and the front of your seat.
- Your knees should be at or below the level of your hips.
- Adjust the backrest of your chair to support your low- and mid-back or use a back support.
- Relax your shoulders and keep your forearms parallel to the ground.
- Avoid sitting in the same position for long periods of time.