As most jobs shift from manual labour to sitting in front of a computer for hours at a time, the human body has had a difficult time adjusting. Your muscles were built for movement and activity. But if they remain still for too long, they'll become stiff. This is why many office workers end up with neck pain, lower back pain and muscle soreness.
The good news is that you can avoid these challenges by remaining as active as possible. If you maintain strategic movements during and after work, you can significantly reduce stiffness and other related complications.
Take frequent breaks and adjust your posture
Once you get to work and sit in front of your computer, make sure you take frequent breaks in-between tasks. Stand up and stretch after sitting for more than an hour. Also, adjust your posture frequently while you work. If your neck is feeling stiff, gently move it side to side to loosen the neck muscles.
You should also use your lunch break to stand and walk around. Avoid eating lunch at your desk and remaining in the same posture for the entire day. Some offices also provide flexible workstations where you can complete tasks while standing. Take advantage of this option and reduce how much time you spend in one position.
Put that gym membership to good use
A big mistake that most people make is to go from their desks and straight to their couches. After a busy day, you may be looking to relax and unwind. However, spending hours on your couch may add to muscle stiffness.
A good strategy is going to the gym so you can stretch your muscles accordingly. Consult a physiotherapist to give you workout ideas that help ease soreness and stiffness. You can also ice sore neck or shoulder muscles after a workout to relieve tension.
Walk to work
Not everyone may have time (or resources) to spend in the gym. But if you live close to your place of work, consider walking to and from on specific days. Walking is the easiest way of stretching your muscles and reducing stiffness. As you walk, stretch any part of your body that may be feeling sore.
Visit a physiotherapist
If your stiffness isn't getting better, consider visiting a physiotherapist. These professionals can carry out many different treatments to help relieve tense muscles (including deep tissue massages and ice/heat therapy).
