Say Goodbye to Aches and Pains: Tips for Working Comfortably at Home

June 24 is National Work from Home Day, which hits home for many due to this past year’s circumstances. Although cutting out the commute, in addition to the relaxed environment may seem like an optimal way to work, it can easily slip into poor habits that can cause aches and pains.

Luckily, we’ve got some expert PT advice to make sure that doesn’t happen!

Here are some tips to change the routine that will help fight off those aches and pains, allow for optimal performance, and keep your productivity going strong.

Tip 1

Check your workstation. Take a look at where the screen and the keyboard are. Too high or too low can lead to an array of problems with your neck, back, wrist, and elbows. Adjusting the height of your chair or putting books under the monitor can help make the necessary adjustments to help with your posture.

Tip 2

Take breaks. It doesn’t matter how perfect your workstation is set up- it is difficult to maintain good posture throughout the workday. It is easy to slowly fade into a variety of poor postures! Set a timer, we recommend every hour. Stand up and grab a drink of water or walk around for 30 sec to break up prolonged sitting. When you return to sitting, reset your posture. You will be surprised how taking a short break can make you more productive in the long run!

Tip 3

Even with the previous two tips, a long work day can be exhausting. Take the time to take care of yourself. Here are a few stretches to try out which will help facilitate better posture and fight off the aches and pains.

Doorway stretch

Upper trap stretch

Seated hamstring stretch

If you still are having pains due to working from home, contact any of our clinics, or request to schedule an appointment right now on our “REQUEST APPOINTMENT” tab to be evaluated by a PT who can set you on the right path to recovery!