Working from home is a literal pain in the neck
COVID-19 has profoundly changed our working situation, with 81% of people worldwide having to change their workplace since 2020. You might be one of the many people that had or still have to work from home to do your part in managing the pandemic. Now let me ask you, have you noticed any new or increasing muscle and joint pain since adjusting to the “new normal”? If so, you are NOT alone!
A study has shown that around 40% of workers (mainly doing computer work) reported worsening neck, back, and hand pain since working from home.
So what is the problem?
- Inappropriate work setups: working at the dining table, sitting on the couch, and looking down to a small laptop screen
- Not taking breaks in between
- Longer work hours: with no distinction between work and home, people continue to work past their office hours
How do we solve this problem?
- Appropriate work gear: using a supportive and comfortable chair and changing the height of the computer screen (not looking overly up or down).
- Frequent breaks and have a stretch regime: it is recommended to change positions every 30-60 minutes and you can use that time to do some stretches.
- Have a set schedule: just like working a 9-5 in the office, put the same boundaries at home as well. Put the computer down when it’s dinner time!
If you need more information on how to solve this worldwide issue, come and see one of our physiotherapists and we will be happy to guide you in the right direction! Happy stretching!
Author
Megant Andhika
Physiotherapist
Megant graduated from Curtin University with a Bachelor of Science in Physiotherapy with Honours, where she conducted research on musculoskeletal pain.Megant is passionate about gym rehabilitation and introducing people of all ages and conditions to the benefits of strengthening exercises.
– Management of chronic musculoskeletal issues
– Gym-based rehabilitation
(08) 9279 7411