Ergonomics And Sciatica

Ergonomics and sciatica- the correlation between the two may not be very obvious, but they are definitely interrelated. When you are suffering from sciatica, pain in the lower back, buttocks, thighs and legs could make working difficult for you. This is where ergonomics come to your aid.

Ergonomics refers to the study of body when you are at work. When you are at work, your body is required to meet several physical demands. Ergonomists study these physical demands and suggest how you can meet those without causing any harm to your body. They also teach you how to perform various tasks so that the risk of any kind of injury gets significantly minimized.

Here is how you can use ergonomics to make your sciatic pain bearable while at work. These tips will also minimize chances of further damage.

#1 Watch how you sit
The way you sit on your chair has a lot to do with the amount of pain you deal with. Sit on the chair with your hips and knees at an angle of 45 degrees. Your feet should always be touching the floor. Make sure that you do not cross your legs. You can make your sitting comfortable by opting for a well designed ergonomic chair. In addition, you can also use lower back support in the form of a rolled up towel. Also, make it a point to not stay seated for long hours at a stretch. It is recommended that you go for a stroll after every twenty minutes.

#2 Get up right
While getting up from your seat, make sure that you never bend at the waist. This can stretch the sciatic nerve and worsen the pain. Instead, slide to the front of the seat and then straighten your legs to stand up.

#3 Do wheelies
If your chair has wheels, you could use it to move your body as a single unit.

#4 Stay close to the desk
Staying close to the desk ensures that you do not have to bend forward. Your arms and elbows should be firmly rested on the desk. Keep your shoulders relaxed.

#5 Have an ergonomic workstation
To make your computer ergonomic, simply keep the computer at your eye level. Your keyboard and mouse should be placed close to you so that you do not have to reach out to them.

#6 Never stand still
Do not stand for long hours at a stretch. If your job requires you to stand for long hours, then rest for a few minutes by placing one of the legs on an elevated area. Alternate 10-15 minutes.

#7 Say no to muscle strain
Avoid any activities that may cause muscle strain. These may include carrying heavy luggage, pushing the sofa or even picking up a table.

Following the right ergonomics could help you overcome the problem of sciatica or at least experience a little less of pain.

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