The best posture is the next posture!
As you can probably imagine, physios see a a LOT of clients with neck and shoulder pain. Quite often, the pain is attributed to sustained desk-based postures. Research has shown that, in addition to making physical ergonomic desk changes (adjusting screen height, chair set-up and other workstation elements), desk workers should undertake regular stretching and mobility-based exercises to reduce pain and discomfort in the long-term.
It’s widely known that musculoskeletal pain caused by desk-based occupations can lead to increased absenteeism through medical leave, reduced productivity, increased financial burden by employees and employers, as well as long-term disability risks. To help combat this, the World Health Organization (WHO) has advised that the physical working environment as well as physique of the individual need to be optimised.
Further studies have confirmed this and advised that a combination of exercise, ergonomic workstations, and regular positional (posture) changes are the best ways to decrease any neck and lower back discomfort caused by sustained time working at a desk.
While there are plenty of generic “fixes” to optimising workstations, an individual approach for improving posture is always best. Book in with one of our experienced physiotherapists today for a tailored exercise program that you can complete at your desk (or in our Pilates studio!) to help manage and eradicate your neck pain.
~ Erin Pregarc, Physiotherapist
