While working from home is great in many ways, you may notice that it is a problem for your back and overall health. Here are ten tips for making WFH better.
1. Make Seats Comfortable
If you’re working from your dining room table, you’re probably sitting on chairs that were not meant for all-day us. Adding seat cushions is a quick and easy way to make your chair a bit more comfortable. You can even find ones that match your kitchen décor.
2. Consider Lumbar Support
Having a lumbar support cushion or pillow for your lower back is also a good idea. Lumbar support pillows are a great addition to an office chair or makeshift office chair.
3. Create a Designated Workstation
If you plan to work from home long term, consider creating a designated workstation. Having a comfortable workplace can also help you create a better work-life balance.
4. Invest in an Ergonomic Chair
Consider upgrading with an ergonomic office chair if your current chair is old or isn’t made for desk work. A good ergonomic chair will have built-in lumbar and elbow support. Look for a chair that adjusts quickly and is soft enough for long-term sitting.
5. Consider a Standing Desk
Working from a standing position for some of your day can help improve posture and reduce pressure on your back. A desk that easily converts from sitting to standing.
This is a practical option for leg health, too. Sitting for long periods can put you at risk for everything from varicose veins to blood clots. Make a habit of standing every half hour or so.
6. Make Breaks a Priority
Try to move at least once per hour. Standing and movement help circulation and decrease the stress on your back.
7. Don’t Skip Workouts
Keeping your muscles, especially your core muscles, strong can help your back function throughout the day. Stretching also enables you to release the tension that you’re holding in your back from stress and bad posture.
If you can’t take a break to go to the gym or take a walk, try an exercise peddler that you can use while you work.
8. Take Time to Stretch
Stretching before and after exercise can help prevent injury to your back and other muscle groups. Doing yoga at lunch is also a great way to exercise while stretching your back. Resistance bands also provide a great stretch.
9. Adjust Your Computer Height
Having your computer too high or too low can cause you to strain your neck looking up or force you to hunch over to look down. Ideally, the top of your screen should be at eye level or just slightly above it when you sit comfortably with your shoulders relaxed.
10. Practice Good Posture
Good working posture is essential. Ideally, you want to sit in your work chair with your shoulders relaxed; your knees should be at the same level as your hips or slightly below, and your feet flat on the ground.
Visit Simply Medical today for great products to help support your back health.