Research shows that “the introduction of an ergonomic chair shows a reduction in pain & muscle spasm, as well as a reduction in variance of the symptoms” [1]
People do not usually equate unsafe working conditions with working in an office, or sitting at their computer chair at home. – Yet, the fact of the matter, is that we can all face certain dangers when we sit on a chair. Indeed: “a report by Digby Brown Solicitors [UK] found that a large percentage of workplace-related injuries are linked to outdated and unsafe workplace furniture” [2]. Moreover, the wrong type of chair can disturb the alignment of the spine (including the cervical neck region), and thus result in tremendous pain, leading many people to consult a Pain Specialist. A Pain Doctor will devise a Holistic Personalised Treatment Plan for the patient (this is likely to include both conventional, and the latest cutting-edge treatments). Moreover, they will ensure that from then on, the patient only sits in a suitable ergonomic chair.
The Low-Down on Ergonomic Chairs
These types of chairs have been on the market for many years. They are engineered to support the body, prevent discomfort, and facilitate good posture. They also endow spine support, and provide a natural position for your joints, thereby aligning your spine, hips and shoulders. Ergonomic chairs are also highly adjustable, thereby allowing the user to set them to suit their body type. If you have an in-person or online consultation with a Pain Specialist, be sure to ask their advice on the type of ergonomic chair that would be best for your needs.
Facing Facts
“Sitting on a bad office chair, or one that is incorrectly adjusted, can result in common posture-related hazards. A spine that doesn’t move become inflexible & pain may result, most commonly in the lower back, neck, shoulders and hips. A poor sitting posture can cause compression of the discs in your spine & lead to premature degeneration & chronic pain” [3]
To that end, having an accurate diagnosis from a Pain Doctor, is crucial for successfully negating your pain. They will review your medical history, ask you various pertinent questions relating to your pain; thoroughly examine your head, neck and upper back, and make a fully comprehensive assessment involving a high resolution MRI scan or other equipment. If your first consultation with the Pain Specialist is online, then an in-person appointment with a consultant radiologist will be set up for another day.
References
[1]. Hoeben, C. (2014). “Ergonomic chair intervention: Effect on chronic upper quadrant dysfunction, disability and productivity in female computer workers.” South African Journal of Physiotherapy 70(2)
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/307828156_Ergonomic_chair_intervention_Effect_on_chronic_upper_quadrant_dysfunction_disability_and_productivity_in_female_computer_workers
[2]. Osman, M. (2022). “Everything You Need to Know Before Buying an Ergonomic Office Chair.”
https://www.theblogsmith.com/ergonomic-office-chair/
[3]. Karle. M. (2022). “The 5 consequences of sitting on the wrong chair.” Karo. https://karo.co.za/knowledge-center/the-consequences-of-sitting-on-the-wrong-chair/
