Many people assume that working at a desk job doesn’t require physical exertion or discomfort, but that is not the case. It is quite common for those with desk jobs to experience a significant amount of back and shoulder pain as well as increased levels of lethargy. Fortunately, there are ways that you can minimize the possibility of this happening to you if you work in an office. Following are five ways that desk workers can slay pain and boost energy levels.
Use Caution When Consuming Sugary Snacks and Beverages
Many modern office environments are teeming with pastries, candy and sweet drinks. Turning these down in favor of healthier options will decrease your risk of experiencing mid-afternoon sugar crashes that are common dilemmas in many workplaces.
Get Up and Walk Around
The experts at Healthy Back say, “Just because you work at a desk doesn’t mean that you can’t get up and walk around on a regular basis.” Doing so will help to keep you energized and will also reduce the risk of back and shoulder pain caused by sitting in the same position for hours on end.
Why Ergonomically Sound Desk and Chairs are Important
One of the key elements that you’ll need for comfort while working a desk job is the right chair. Don’t be afraid to try out different chairs for back pain until you find the one that best suits your individual physique. A good chair can make all the difference between being happy at your job and spending your workdays in misery.
Keep Your Posture Perfect
Even the most ergonomically sound chair on the planet won’t minimize back and shoulder pain if you sit slumped over on it. Sitting up straight with your shoulders back and your feet flat on the floor will have a substantial positive impact on both your energy level and your physical well-being.
Take an Exercise Break Instead of a Lunch Break
Snacking on healthy foods at your desk throughout the workday will eliminate your need for a full lunch, so go for a walk in the park or grab a gym workout instead. You’ll feel and look better if you make this into a habit.
Keep in mind that just because you work at a desk does not mean that you are chained to your chair at all times, and that you are not obligated to participate in the consumption of sugary snacks and beverages that has become a ritual at many workplaces.