The Health Risks of Working at a Desk

One of the main causes of work-related injuries that lead to disability is lower back pain from sitting all day.

You sit at a desk all day typing away and so you have no risk of injury while on the job, right? You might be surprised to know that those who sit in front of a computer all day are at high risk of work-related disabilities due to the nature of their daily work routines.

A high number of work-related claims made to workers compensation insurance come from those who suffer injuries from sitting for most of the day. In fact, one of the main causes of work-related injuries that lead to disability is lower back pain from sitting all day. It’s not just about back pain, sitting all day can lead to neurological issues and can also adversely affect your overall health.

Studies also show that even those who work to keep themselves healthy by exercising and stretching before and after work, suffer from a high rate of chronic lower back pain due to sitting for extended periods of time.

Chronic Illnesses from Sitting

It isn’t just that sitting for extended periods of time in front of a computer leading to lower back pain, a sedentary lifestyle increases your risk for other chronic conditions like heart attack, obesity, and even the potential for a shorter lifespan.

Repetitive and Related Injuries

The risk of repeat and wear-and-tear injuries increases for those who sit in front of a computer for most of the day. Because most people who sit at their desk hold their bodies in the same position for hours on end, it puts a strain on overused muscles.

Staring at a computer typing all day can also lead to eye strain and chronic conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome, which can hinder work performance. Although more difficult to prove, in some instances, those who suffer from chronic diseases, or wear and tear injuries, can claim workers’ compensation.

Proving Your Work Injury

If you sit all day at work, you should know that, even if you take precautions to stretch and exercise to override the damage from a sedentary lifestyle, you may still be at risk of damaging your body.

If you are experiencing lower back pain or have a chronic condition like carpal tunnel syndrome, it is possible to claim workers’ compensation. To have your claim approved, contact a St. Louis workers’ compensation attorney to help plead your case and protect your workers’ compensation eligibility.

Speak With an Experienced Workers Compensation Lawyer

For more than 30 years, the Law Office of James M. Hoffmann has been helping injured workers receive the compensation they need to move forward with their lives. Call us today at (314) 361-4300 or fill out our online contact form to request a free consultation.

How to Be Healthy While Working a Desk Job

Get Up and Move Around Every 30 Minutes or So: Just because you work a desk job doesn’t mean you must be confined to your chair all day. Get up and move around every 30 minutes or so to get your blood flowing. Take a walk around the office, stretch, or stand up and work for a while.

Skip the Elevator: While you may want to save time and get to your meeting or desk as quickly as possible, consider taking the stairs instead. It’s a great way to get in some extra steps and get your heart rate up.

Park Farther Away: If you drive to work, park your car farther away from the office than usual. Maybe you can park in the back of the parking lot or on the other side of the street. This way, you’ll have to walk a little farther and get some extra steps in.

Exercise During Lunch Hour: A 10-minute walk or simple exercise can make all the difference. Not only will you get in some much-needed activity, but you’ll also clear your head and be more productive in the afternoon.

Suggest Having a Walking Meeting: Not all meetings need to be held in a conference room. After all, there’s just going to be more sitting. Suggest having a walking meeting instead. This way, you can get some steps in while still getting your work done.

Utilize Your Time Outside Work: Find ways to be active when you’re not at work. Taking a brisk walk in your neighborhood or riding a bike on the weekends are great ways to stay active. You can also join a sports team or take up a new hobby that gets you moving.

These are just a few tips on how to stay active and healthy while working at your desk. By making a few simple changes, you can improve your health and well-being.

Injured on the Job?

Unfortunately, while desk jobs may not be as physically demanding as other jobs, they still come with their own set of risks. From carpal tunnel syndrome to back pain, there are several ways you can hurt yourself at your desk job.

If you’ve been injured at your desk job, you may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits. At the Law Office of James M. Hoffmann, our work injury lawyers have a proven track record of success and have helped thousands of injured workers get the benefits they deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation and learn more about your legal rights after a work injury.