Spinal problems are a preventable occupational hazard for anyone in a desk bound profession and the high incidence of backache among this sector is due largely to lack of ergonomically designed workstations and attention to spinal health.

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There are many factors contributing to spinal complaints, which with simple and often common sense practices, can be avoided or even cured.

Disorders of the lower back have reached epidemic proportions and office workers, particularly secretaries and administrative staff, who spend long hours sitting behind desks are among those most at risk. Surveys regularly show that virtually every desk-bound worker can point to some back problem that can be attributed directly to his or her profession.

When one considers the loss of productivity as a result of back and associated problems, it is worthwhile for a company to ensure that its administrative staff have ergonomically designed workstations.

Incorrect seat height is the most critical contributing factor to backache and neck tension. Ideally every staff member should be able to sit with their feet flat on the ground and their knees bent to ninety degrees. When one cannot sit with ones feet placed flat on the floor, the spine is not properly supported resulting in poor posture and muscle fatigue of the back.

Other problems, such as a build up of pressure in the back of the thighs can cause restricted blood flow and numbness in the legs. When the seat is too high in comparison to the desk, the back is strained as the person is forced to bend forward to work.

Special considerations need to be taken when using a swivel chair. There should be a hard surface under the chair so that one does not have to push too hard to move about. Placement of the computer workstation in relation to one's sitting position is also crucial. Ideally, screens should be situated directly in front of users and at the correct height, so that they can type by simply looking straight ahead with only a slight tilting of the head downwards.

Simple practices such as taking regular breaks to stretch and exercise, and taking the time to learn how to care for the spine and applying those practices will also contribute greatly to a drop in back complaints.
 

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