Among the common health issues of today, back and neck pain can sometimes be related to working life. If you spend long hours working at a desk, reviewing documents, making phone calls, or working on a computer, your back and neck areas may be negatively affected by this situation. The cause of neck pain may be due to the incorrect height of the computer screen in front of you, performing exercises that excessively bend your neck, or sleeping in an uncomfortable position. The main causes of back pain are postural disorders and the mechanical strain caused by the incorrect use of the body and spine. The occupational factors that lead to pain in these areas can be listed as follows:
Physical Factors:
*Frequently bending forward and twisting
*Repetitive movements
*Physically overexerting the body (carrying weights, etc.)
*Vibration
*Working for long periods without changing position
Psychological Factors:
*Not receiving adequate support from colleagues
*Not being appreciated
*Not enjoying the job
*Monotony of the job
*Being under intense work pressure
Neck Pain Affects Different Areas of the Body
You may also feel neck pain in your head, shoulders, arms, and fingertips. The nerves that exit from your neck can cause the pain to radiate to these areas. The discomforts you may experience along with neck pain can include: headaches/dizziness, pain in the arms, back and shoulder pain, numbness in the hands, and imbalance.
The Importance of Working in the Correct Position and Taking Breaks
Neck and back pain can arise from various causes, including herniated discs, injuries to neck muscles due to accidents or falls, disorders in the roots of nerves, ligaments, and muscles surrounding the cervical spine, and degeneration of the discs between the vertebrae, which can be alleviated by making some ergonomic adjustments. For example, you should pay attention to your sitting position. Your office chair may have a suitable cushion for the backrest. The characteristics of your desk, your chair, and the position of your computer are also important. Working in the same position for hours inevitably leads to various problems. You should definitely change your posture, do desk exercises, or walk around the office in between. Your head should not be bent forward for long periods, and you should also be careful not to turn your head suddenly or quickly. Avoid using the phone by pinching it between your neck and shoulder.
Remind Yourself Constantly: I Should Stand Up Straight
Frequently being hunched over while working on a computer or phone leads to back and neck pain. In fact, most of us are aware that we do not stand up straight and do not like it. However, after thinking about it a few times and paying attention, we tend to let it go again. It is important to make standing up straight, sitting up straight, and walking a habit. Please pay attention to this.
If You Have Been in Pain for More Than a Few Days, Consult a Specialist
Early diagnosis and treatment are the primary conditions for getting rid of pain, discomfort, and diseases or minimizing damage. Pay attention to the signals your body is giving you. If you have been experiencing pain, numbness, or stiffness for more than a few days, consult a doctor. Back and neck pain can arise from various causes. When the cause of your discomfort is identified by a specialist, you can recover more quickly with a personalized treatment.
Inclined Desks Prevent You from Leaning Over the Table
If you work at a desk for hours, it is beneficial to have such a desk. Or at least, you can ensure that the keyboard you use regularly is inclined.
Occupational Groups Where Back Pain is More Common
Jobs that require heavy physical effort (cleaning, forestry, construction and healthcare sectors, long-distance driving)
Office jobs – computer usage
Occupational Groups Where Neck Pain is More Common
Jobs involving repetitive movements, such as textiles, automotive, and food sectors
Office jobs / frequent computer use
Musicianship
Dentistry
Health and Life
