Did you know that sitting for long periods of time can be detrimental to your muscular health? At Muscle Freedom, we regularly see injuries associated with office jobs. Here are a few of the common office injuries we encounter, and some tips for treating them.

Common office injury #1: Lower back pain

Prolonged periods of sitting in an office chair can lead to lower back pain. While most people assume sitting is a relaxing activity, it actually adds pressure to the back muscles and spine, particularly if you tend to slouch. Lower back pain is one of the most common office injuries we see.

Having an adjustable, ergonomic chair will help prevent lower back pain. Your feet should be flat on the floor. For further tips about how to set up your work station, please read this blog.

Another tip is to use a standing desk. Also, be sure to regularly take a break and walk around to keep your muscles in good shape. And remember, if you’re looking for the best lower back pain treatment in Melbourne, look no further than Muscle Freedom! We offer remedial massage and myotherapy treatments that get to the root of the problem.

Common office injury #2: Neck pain

Incorrect posture at your desk can also lead to neck pain. Often this is caused when your monitor sits too low. The bottom of the monitor should be about the same level as your chin, so that you don’t need to slump your head down to work. Laptops can be particularly problematic for neck health, so avoid using them for long periods if you can, or purchase an ergonomic support frame for your laptop. And as mentioned, don’t forget to walk around every hour.

If you’re after a remedial massage treatment for this common office injury, please get in touch! We can provide advice about how to make your office space ergonomic, while also suggesting stretches to help you avoid neck pain in future.

Common office injury #3: Migraine

Most office workers spend the bulk of their time in front of a computer screen, and this can lead to eyestrain, headaches and even full-blown migraines. Migraines may be triggered by a range of factors, including screen glare, poor image quality, or being too close to the computer. Be sure to check your computer settings.

Again, sitting for long periods can also create tension in the neck and lower back, that can then bring on headaches. The trick is to move regularly. Also, try to take in some fresh air during your lunch break to avoid this common office injury.

If you are having ongoing problems with migraines, please give us a call. Our myotherapists and remedial massage therapists can help relieve your discomfort using a range of techniques, including trigger-point therapy and deep tissue massage.

Common office injury #4: RSI

Repetitive Strain Injury occurs from overuse of the soft tissues of the neck, upper and lower back, chest, shoulders, hands or arms. Doing the same activity over and over can cause RSI. An example may be typing all day, every day or clutching and dragging with the mouse for long periods. Symptoms may include tightness, stiffness, tingling and numbness.

To avoid this common office injury, try not to grip your mouse, but rather use it lightly. Take regular breaks. If you begin to notice RSI pains or aches, it’s best to address them pronto, before they develop into a debilitating ongoing problem. Book in for a myotherapy and remedial massage treatment with us, and we’ll relive your aches and pains whilst explaining how to prevent RSI in future.

Common office injury #5: Sciatic nerve pain

As mentioned, being seated all day places stress on your back muscles, which may in turn aggravate your sciatic nerve pain. Sciatica occurs when a pinched nerve causes pain to radiate from your back through your leg. As far as common office injuries go, this is one of the more debilitating conditions.

To help prevent sciatic nerve pain, make sure your workstation is set up ergonomically, and be sure to regularly move around and stretch your hamstrings. If you’re in the office and need quick relief, try applying a heat pack to the affected area. You can also find some handy stretch tips here.

Tight lower back muscles can place pressure on your nerve roots, so regular remedial massage may help prevent flare ups. We offer remedial massage treatments designed to help with this common office injury.

If you are suffering from any of these common office injuries, don’t worry, we’re here to help. Our myotherapists and remedial massage therapists are fully qualified and ready to offer remedial massage treatments tailored to your specific needs. Please get in touch today!