Encourage Your Best Spine Health at Work
By Genevieve Smith
Standing desks have been a hit with offices and stay-at-homers alike who have experienced the negative effects of sitting for extended periods. While sitting is known to contribute to health problems such as weight gain, poor posture, and general aches and pains, standing for long stretches can also be a strain on your feet and ankles. So should you reconsider that standing desk before you invest? Don’t put the kibosh on it yet. These upright workstations can help lessen arm, back, and shoulder pain.
Whether you chose the traditional desk or opt for the standing option, here’s how you can use your workspace to your body’s advantage and make your chiropractor happy.
Practice Better Posture
Whether it’s standing or sitting, you can slip into slouching without realizing it. When it comes to sitting, make sure you find an office chair with optimal support. The investment will be worth it in the long term as days upon days of sitting without support take their toll. When standing, make sure to stagger your legs, with one foot slightly in front of the other, and feet shoulder width apart, for optimal weight distribution. Make sure your standing desk is neither too high nor too low, either of which would cause a strain on your wrists, elbows, and spine.
Wear the Right Shoes
Wearing supportive shoes throughout the day supports your joints and encourages even weight distribution for a better posture. When opting to stand for your work day, choosing the proper shoe wear is even more important than the decision for day-to-day use. Look for footwear with arch support and cushioning. If you tend to wear high heels or dress shoes to the office, consider bringing a pair of supportive shoes to change into for your hours logged at the standing desk.
Go For A Stroll
Regardless of whether you ultimately sit, stand, or lie down while working, your body will develop aches and pains if you don’t get up and move. Take a break every 30 minutes and walk the hallways, grab a glass of water, or step outside for optimal spine health. You will find you get an added boost of energy as you get your blood flowing, and return refreshed.
Incorporate mindfulness of your posture, arch support, and regular breaks into your work routine, and you’ll be one step closer to a healthier, happier skeletal system. If you find you need more support, visit with chiropractors at The Joint Chiropractic to get quality chiropractic care. At The Joint, getting care is an enjoyable and stress-free experience. Just use their walk-in visits and affordable pricing to your advantage. Get professional and friendly care at The Joint with a quick visit as soon as today.
To learn more about your health and wellness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic.