Tuesday, June 16, 2020

Preventing Back Pain in Sedentary Occupations


As the medical director of fire/EMS services for Brownsville, Texas, Dr. John Wells oversaw the recent implementation of a mobile integrated health program for the city, which aims to reduce the number of users of both the EMS services and local emergency rooms. Dr. John Wells is a pain management specialist and the current CEO of Melchizedek Medical, PLLC where among other duties he organizes medical directorships for consultations in correctional and occupational medicine.

Although not typically thought of as a hazardous position, office workers are among those in high need of occupational medicine. The sedentary nature of office work can lead to complications in the spine and back pain.

To help prevent back pain while working, it’s a good idea to customize your workspace in the office. Make sure everything on your desk is within reach and you have easy access to frequently used items. You should also adjust your chair so that your feet are flat on the floor and your knees are at a 90-degree angle.

Whenever possible, try to take breaks and move around. The more you alternate between sitting and standing, the less likely you are to develop back pain.