Finding Relief for Your Lower Back Pain at Work
By Debra Rodzinak
For many who suffer from lower back pain, sitting or standing at work can become very frustrating. There are some steps for those suffering with lower back pain you can take to minimize those workplace frustrations, but communication with an employer is necessary.
What Should I Share with My Employer?
Some of the causes of lower back pain are not readily identifiable, so those suffering with lower back pain often are hesitant to discuss their pain with others because, unlike a cold or broken bone, a particular cause cannot be identified as the culprit of the cause of pain.
If an employer is aware that you are suffering from lower back pain, this allows them to better help you adjust your workload or workstation for better performance. A few simple changes can often help those suffering from lower back pain find relief and increase productivity.
What Type of Accommodations Should I Request?
Depending on the type of work you perform, the type of accommodations will vary. For example, if you sit in a chair for an extended period of time, you may want to find an ergonomically advanced chair, a stand-up desk, balance stool, kneeling chair, or an exercise ball to change your position throughout the day.
I sit for extended periods of time during work and have found that after purchasing a chair with an adjustable lumbar feature, my lower back pain decreased. I also brought in a stool to elevate my legs. Getting up and moving around every hour ensures that I don’t end up hunched over my laptop. Stretching every few minutes also seems to bring relief.
If you stand for extended periods of time, a specialized mat that provides anti-fatigue properties and cushions the floor area can bring relief. Sitting periodically, like during lunch or breaks, can also let the back rest.
For both types of work, just going from a standing to a sitting position will benefit the lower back and reduce back pain.
What Else Can I Do?
Getting regular chiropractic adjustments can realign the spine to allow the lower back to function properly. When the back becomes misaligned, the rest of the body will take over the stress which can lead to localized pain in different areas.
Visit The Joint to begin your workday with a properly aligned spine. The expert doctors at The Joint can provide gentle adjustments to the spine that can relieve pain in the lower back due to work conditions. With no long insurance forms to fill out or appointment times to remember, a trip to The Joint is easy and convenient. Come by today to find relief for your lower back pain.
