We live in a time when a significant number of people have jobs that require them to be seated much of the day at their desks. While many people do an excellent job of getting up, moving around and finding time in their day to get exercise, many more people do not, which can result in a variety of problems, including significant weight gain and chronic back pain in Brampton.
Yes, that’s right—prolonged periods of sitting are one of the biggest causes associated with chronic back pain, which affects millions of Americans. Humans simply weren’t designed to be seated for so long—when sedentary, the muscles do not get as many nutrients from the blood and don’t take in as much oxygen.
Many physiotherapists say the best standard is to change positions and postures as frequently as possible, and to take breaks every half hour or so to move around a bit. It’s also helpful to drink lots of water. Not only does it keep you hydrated, but it will force you to get up and get refills or use the bathroom periodically throughout the day.
Here are a few ways you can deal with chronic back pain in Brampton if you’re forced to sit during much of the day.
Pick up new activities
You might not want to start with hardcore weight training and aerobics, but there are plenty of other activities that not only can help you burn some calories, but are also great for your back and your posture. Yoga is highly effective for treating back pain caused by sitting, and will help you stretch out your body and achieve new positions. Pilates and Tai Chi are other examples of activities that have some extensive health benefits that can increase your energy and reduce the amount of pain you experience.
Seek assistive products
There are a lot of different types of products you can use in your office to help prevent you from having to deal with chronic back pain. Standing desks, for example, have gained some great popularity in recent years, as they help burn extra calories and can prevent back pain caused by sitting. Other examples of these types of products include ergonomic chairs (which help you maintain better posture and provide better lower back and lumbar support), keyboard trays (to adjust your keyboard to better heights/angles), monitor arms (for better monitor positioning) and inversion tables (for better spine angle).
See a therapist or medical professional
Of course, seeking professional help for chronic back pain is always a good idea. Sometimes all it takes is a good massage to work out some of the pain you feel. Not only is it physically therapeutic, but it can also be mentally and emotionally rejuvenating. You can also go to a physical therapist, especially if you’ve suffered a significant injury and need help recovering from it.
For more information about the options you have to treat chronic back pain in Brampton and for tips on how you can avoid it, contact Paramount Physiotherapy & Sports Injuries Clinic to speak with a physiotherapist today.