Ergonomics Healthy Tips: How to Save and Relax Your Back

Posted on July 30, 2008
Filed Under Health

While the majority of people act automatically to minimise self-harm while working, the science of ergonomics goes further in considering quite specifically how task configuration and tool design can decrease the likelihood of injury.

Here are a few tips for a good health of your back:

- Always seek to keep the natural curves and perfect shape in your back. These curves provide strength and support for your back. This is especially important when lifting or when sitting for long period.

- Warming Up for Work Just as an athlete prepares before playing a sport, you too should prepare before work to help prevent back injuries. These slow stretches help prevent back injuries and make your muscles more flexible. Hold each position for 20 seconds and repeat 3 times before work.

- Get as comfortable as you can in the car. Long commutes can be hard on your back. Adjust your seat and position your arms so that you can easily reach the steering wheel. Use a pillow in the seat if needed to support your lower back curve. Remember to stop to take stretch breaks when on a long trip.

- Keep objects close. A 10 pound bag of groceries can put 100 pounds of pressure on your lower back. Holding things away from your body greatly increases this pressure.

- Stay in good shape. Exercise. Do daily stretches and watch your weight. Extra weight, muscle weakness, or muscle imbalances due to tightness, can affect your posture and result in back discomfort or pain.

- Listen to your body! Be careful! Feeling discomfort or pain is an indication that something is wrong! Heed the signs! Combinations of awkward posture, force, repetitions, and insufficient rest periods are a set up for injury. Take more frequent “mini-breaks” before you become fatigued. Become aware of mounting stresses, aches and pains.

- Sleep on a firm mattress providing good support. Place a pillow under your knees when on your back, or between your knees if you are on your side. Use memory foam mattress and adjustable bed.

RELAX THE BACK is the leading provider for tempurpedic mattresses, made from memory foam developed by NASA. They sell an array of adjustable beds, recliners, massage beds, ergonomic office chairs, and more. They offer solutions for those seeking relief from back and neck pain by providing products like adjustable beds, recliners, massage beds, ergonomic office chairs, and more. Relax The Back stores provide the best products to end the epidemic of back pain and help in preventing back pain. Since the beginning Relax The Back has expanded not only the number of stores, but also the customer base and product line. Stores now offer a variety of products for your back and neck. Products are merchandised in one of five lifestyle zones- Office, Home, Sleep, Travel and Health & Fitness-, many of which are exclusive to the chain.