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How cubical life is killing our backs

On Behalf of | Apr 16, 2014 | Workplace Safety |

Many people in Minnesota know what it is like to spend eight hours a day in a cubical. Because so many jobs are technology-driven, sitting at a desk and staring at a computer screen is how many people get their work done. Office environments that encourage employees to be sedentary all day, however, may actually be causing people serious health problems.

One of the most noticeable issues with constant sitting is back pain. While you might just feel stiff or sore at first, prolonged states of inactivity can lead to long-term and even lifelong problems as lower back ligaments become strained and damaged. But when your job is to sit at a desk, how can you prevent a back injury?

There are a few ways that office employees can attempt to mitigate the damage that long-term sitting can cause. First, you can try to stay active at work. Get up regularly to take a quick walk or excercise during lunch. Once you get home, it is a good idea to stay active. Work out or go for a walk to avoid more sitting. If you don’t find relief through exercise, it is important to talk to a doctor to make sure you don’t have a bigger problem.

Next, you should consider asking your employer for better equipment that is designed with employee health in mind. There are chairs that are more supportive and encourage good posture. Some employers may even offer desks that rise up and down so an employee can stand and work some times.

Unfortunately, some employers in Minnesota are not always willing to pay extra money to keep you healthy. However, if you discover that you have suffered a serious or permanent injury because of hazards in your work environment, it is important to talk to an attorney who is experienced in workers’ compensation. If you are injured because of something your employer did — or did not do — you deserve compensation for your medical bills and other related damages. Workers’ compensation can provide that.

Source: Huffington Post, “The Painful Truth About Office Back Pain,” Greg Voakes, April 15, 2014

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