Taking regular breaks is the easiest way to avoid injury
As you sit at your desk it seems the paper just seems to pile up, no matter how much extra work you do a day, it goes nowhere.
We're spending more and more time pinned to our desks, which often means that they're doubling up as canteen benches.
Research from the British Chiropractic Association (BCA) indicates that 51 per cent of Brits suffer from some sort of back pain. This shows that the importance of movement and alternating seating positions throughout the day is vital to our health.
Tim Hutchful, BCA chiropractor says: "It's no surprise that people are working longer and harder than ever before, however, it is important to realise the implications of this on the health and well-being of your back after a full eight hours or more sat in the same position.
"Getting away from your desk at lunchtime and at regular intervals throughout your working day is vital, even if it's just for 10-15 minutes. Otherwise, a simple stretch can relieve built-up tension in your lower back after being seated for a long time. In the long-run, the result is that you will ultimately feel better and be more productive for the remainder of the day."
To help prevent the effects of back pain while at work, the BCA offers the following advice:
· Relax when sitting into your chair, making sure you have your bottom against the seat back with your shoulder blades touching the back rest of the chair.
· Make sure your feet touch the floor (or use a foot rest).
· There should be space between the front of your seat and back of your calves.
· Your hips should be higher than your knees (tilt the seat).
· Arms should be flat and your elbows level with the desk or table you are using. Use a seat with arm rests.
· Take regular breaks. Never sit at the computer for more than 40 minutes; less if possible.
· When you take a break, walk around and stretch a little; do something completely different.
· Remove any obstacles from under your desk to ensure you have enough leg room.
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