Emotional wellbeing, back pain and working from home
Nearly half of British workers have been working from home since the UK went into lockdown, according to official figures.* Although restrictions have eased, organisations have been reluctant for their employees to return to the office, and many are predicting that the practice of remote working is here to stay.
While this new way of working has its many advantages, we are living in a strange and uncertain time – having to juggle childcare, family responsibilities and endless Zoom meetings – which can be both physically demanding as well as stressful.
Emotional wellbeing and its role in MSK pain
Emotional wellbeing plays an important role in our ability to manage pain and keep our bodies healthy. During this unprecedented and difficult time it is important that we recognise that we may not be as productive. Working in isolation – without the support of colleagues – may also increase stress and anxiety levels.
Did you know? Stress, depression or anxiety and musculoskeletal disorders accounted for the majority of days lost due to work-related ill health, 12.8 million and 6.9 million respectively. (Health Safety Executive)
A physiotherapist is a medical professional who can help you to improve your lifestyle and your holistic health.
At Ravenscroft Health we offer physiotherapy treatment for musculoskeletal problems (MSK) such as back, neck, knee and shoulder problems, as well as other muscle or joint problems.
We also offer pain management injections. Learn about the epidural injections we offer for back pain and discover the benefits of ultrasound-guided joint injections.
How to combat back pain while working from home
Poor posture can increase your risk of back and neck pain so if you are sitting at the computer or using your laptop for long periods it is important that you organise a dedicated workspace. It is best to avoid working from the sofa, for example.
Use NHS guidelines to set up your workspace correctly. This will help to prevent aches and pains.
If you are able to, make the most of a quiet space away from distractions, such as the television or fridge. This will help you to focus on your work and avoid overwhelm.
Maintaining physical activity is important for emotional as well as physical wellbeing.
Remember to take regular breaks. This will help you to release muscle tension and reduce stress.
The Chartered Society of Physiotherapists has produced a handy list of simple desk-based exercises you can perform to help ease the aches and pains associated with sitting for long periods while working from home.
Top tips for preventing back and neck pain
Our team of experts at Ravenscroft Health share their top tips for preventing back and neck pain when working from home.
- Create a daily routine. Ensure that you maintain the same start and finish time.
- Choose a specific room/environment as your workspace.
- Try and set up the workstation to suit you. For example, using books to raise the screen, using a box as a foot stool.
- Take regular breaks. Do stretches and walking around the room for the muscles to regain nourishment.
- Get good sleep.
- Eat and drink healthy
- Look after your mental wellbeing – socialise with friends through video platforms, meet friends outdoors keeping social distance in mind.
- Speak to a professional if you need help.
Ravenscroft Healthcare is a specialist rehabilitation and pain management centre. We treat thousands of patients each year for a vast range of musculoskeletal and chronic pain conditions.
Our aim is to make managing your health as simple, hassle-free and – most importantly – as effective as possible for you. You can find out more about the full range of services we offer on our Services pages.
References:
* Coronavirus and homeworking in the UK: April 2020
Desk-based exercises Chartered Society of Physiotherapists
Setting up your workspace correctly NHS guidelines
