Despite ones attempts to maintain good posture prolonged sitting periods is just not healthy. It is important to move and change positions. The old cliché “motion is lotion” or “rest is rust” is very true. In these difficult times many people may have the ability to work remotely from home.
Importance of Mobility
Mobility can help reduce one’s symptoms of stiffness and discomfort from prolonged sitting. To put it simply, our spines are joints that need to be lubricated. The lubrication for our body is called synovial fluid. This is the fluid that lubricates our joints with movement, so too little movement will cause increased stiffness. Increased physical activity boosts the circulation of synovial fluid as well as move water molecules that may add weight to the joints, so simply stated exercise and movement lubricates and nourishes the joints. So, get up and move.
Setting Up Your Makeshift Office
Working from home from a makeshift office may not be ideal and requires one to be more cognizant of your posture. Below are some tips to help you sit correctly from your home designated work area.
Change Positions Frequently
It is also important to remember to change your position often. Sitting in one position for extended periods of time may lead to neck, shoulder, and back pain. You should change your position at the very least every hour. Remember to take breaks to walk around your house. Try setting a timer for every 30 to 60 minutes as a reminder to take a 5-minute break to walk and stretch.
With today’s difficult times the ability to work from home is being embraced by many employers and employees whenever possible. Let’s make home ergonomics and general comfort of the remote workspace a priority so in the end when life returns to normal one’s long-term health will be maintained.
Written by Robin Sipp MPT- Aquacare Physical Therapy- Lewes Delaware office.