The pandemic has changed many aspects of day-to-day life, especially how, where, and when we work, as thousands of people transitioned to remote work and working from home over the past 18+ months.
With the Omicron variant surging around the world, working from home looks set to continue for the near future at least, if not already a permanent fixture. Many will have found the WFH brings many benefits, such as no commute and a better work-life balance. But it is important to ensure that you avoid the pitfalls of working from home.
If you are currently working from home or away from the office, here are a few daily changes you can make to help mitigate some of the risks associated with common issues, such as neck stiffness and lower back pain.
Get moving early
It might be tempting to roll out of bed five minutes before you start work, but it is important to get up earlier and move around a bit to help avoid pain and discomfort later in the day. Whether it’s a workout, a run, an early morning walk or some simple stretches, exercise and mobility work can get the blood flowing and loosen up muscles.
Create the right set-up
Avoid working from the sofa, or even your bed. You might not be in the office, but working at a desk with a chair set to the right height will prevent slouching. You want a chair that provides back support, keeps your knees parallel to your hips, and your feet flat on the floor, and ensure your monitor is at eye level.
Take regular breaks
In the office, you will likely be walking around more, whether to and from meetings or nipping out for lunch. Try to remember to get up and stretch and walk around for 5 minutes every hour or so. It not only gives your mind a break, which will improve productivity and focus but will help stave off stiffness.
If you’ve been suffering from aches and pains from WFH, and looking for a physiotherapist in Maidenhead, talk to us today.
