A study by the Bureau of Labor and Statistics found in 2016 that Americans spend an average of 39% of their day sitting down. Some, such as accountants, spend more than 80% of their day sitting.  It’s not surprising that we have more headaches, muscle stiffness and pain in the neck, shoulder and back than ever before. Fortunately, there are five things you can do to improve your health without quitting your job.

1. Do a Neck Stretch

Instead of trying to pull your neck down to your chest, which can actually do more harm than good, hold on to the collarbone on the side of your neck that you want to stretch. Now gently pull down as you tilt your head in the opposite direction, away from your hands. turn your head away looking over your shoulder for an additional stretch.

After holding for 20 seconds, repeat with the other side.

Try to do 3 sets on each side every hour.

The combination of counter pressure from your hands while tilting and turning your head should relieve any tension you are feeling in your neck.

2. Position Your Screen Higher

Most of us have our screens too low on our desks, causing us to slouch or hunch over to see what we are doing. Instead of moving your body to match your screen, shift your computer to suit your body. Sit with the correct posture in your chair and position your screen so that you need to look up slightly at what you are doing.

3. Take Your Breaks

If your employer allows short breaks and mealtimes, eating lunch at your desk or never leaving your chair for eight straight hours does not do you any favors.

Even if your employer has no structured break policy, set an hourly reminder to stand up, walk around, stretch your body and get back to work. This will reset your posture, restore blood flow and make you feel refreshed.

4. Make Sure You Don’t Favor One Side

Change your desk layout monthly so that you face a different direction. You are more likely to develop shoulder, neck and back problems if you favor one side.

5. Drink More Water

It has been shown that drinking more water can relieve some headache symptoms caused by dehydration, which is something most of us experience. Water maintains your brain function, lubricates your joints and keeps your digestive system working the way it should.

Having a desk job doesn’t mean you are doomed to a life of aches and pains. Doing these 5 simple things will improve your health and free you from pain. Let Innovative Chiropractic do the rest. Call today to schedule a consultation.