After the common cold, back pain is the second most frequent reason why working Americans call in sick. This ailment costs U.S. businesses as much as $100 billion every year. “The back is a complex structure with many delicate parts. But with some common sense – including proper lifting, good posture, and exercise – it’s possible to avoid common back pain,” said Dr. Paul C. McCormick, director of New York-Presbyterian Hospital's Spine Center.
With the goal of preventing this all-too-common ailment, Spine Center offers these tips on avoiding back injury:
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To avoid back injuries at the office, sit in alignment with your feet supported, hips level or slightly below the knees, spine vertical or slightly reclined, and a small arch in the lower back.
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If you’re sitting at a computer, the shoulders are relaxed down away from the ears; the elbows are by the side, bent to about 90 degrees; the wrists are neutral (not bent up, down or away from each other), and the head is facing front without protruding forward.
Most back pain improves by itself if you avoid whatever activity caused the pain in the first place. Back pain is nearly always caused by strain or sprain of muscles, ligaments, or soft tissue. If you have back pain, don’t linger in bed. Lack of activity can actually delay your recovery. |
