Back to Work, Not Back to Pain

Pain Throughout the Workday? Your Desk Might Be Part of the Problem.

Summer is winding down. Vacations are over, kids are back in school, and many of us are settling back into our normal work routines.

That can also mean spending more hours sitting at a desk.

If your neck, shoulders, upper back, wrists, or low back have started bothering you again, your desk setup may be playing a bigger role than you realize.

And no—you don’t necessarily need a fancy standing desk or expensive ergonomic chair to fix it.

Your Body Isn’t Designed to Stay in One Position All Day.

One of the biggest misconceptions about workplace pain is that there is one “perfect” sitting posture.

The reality? There isn’t.

Your body generally tolerates positions well when you move regularly and change positions throughout the day. Problems can arise when you spend hours in the same position, especially if your workstation forces you to reach, lean, twist, or look down for extended periods.

The goal isn't perfect posture. The goal is creating a workspace that allows you to move comfortably and frequently.

3 Simple Changes to Try Today

Before you completely overhaul your office, try these simple adjustments:

1. Bring the work to you.

Your keyboard, mouse, and frequently used items should be close enough that you aren't constantly reaching forward.

2. Get your screen in a comfortable position.

Your monitor should generally be positioned so you aren't spending hours looking down or turning your head to one side.

3. Change positions regularly.

Even a great ergonomic setup can't make eight hours of uninterrupted sitting ideal. Stand up, walk around, stretch, or simply change positions throughout the day.

Small changes, repeated consistently, can make a big difference.

Not Sure If Your Workspace Is Working For You?

At DPT Physical Therapy, we help people identify the everyday habits and movement patterns that may be contributing to their pain—not just treat the symptoms after they develop.

That's why we're offering ergonomics screens/evaluations to help you take a closer look at your work environment.

During an evaluation, we can assess your workstation, positioning, movement habits, and the demands of your job, then provide practical recommendations that fit your specific workspace and routine.

No complicated equipment. No one-size-fits-all checklist. Just practical strategies to help you work more comfortably.

Request an Ergonomics Screen

If you're heading back into a regular work routine and noticing aches or discomfort, don't wait until they become a bigger problem.

Request an ergonomics screen/evaluation:

Call (248) 850-7008

Book online: https://dpt.patient.sprypt.com/clinics

Or simply reply to this email

Let's make your workspace work for you, not against you.

Here's to a healthier, more comfortable fall routine!

Brandon Katona DPT, PT