Avoid These Common Injuries When Working From Home

As the Covid-19 pandemic forced many people in the UK to transition to working from home, it brought about a mix of benefits and challenges. While remote work offers advantages such as eliminating long commutes, providing flexibility, and allowing for comfortable attire, it also presents its own set of difficulties. Many individuals faced struggles in adapting to and establishing a conducive work environment at home. It’s crucial to be aware of certain risk factors associated with working from home to prevent potential injuries. In this article, we will discuss how to avoid common injuries that can occur when working remotely.

Back Pain

Back pain emerged as the most prevalent work-from-home injury, with 27% of home workers experiencing this issue, according to Claims and Medical Negligence specialists. Prolonged sitting, improper chair ergonomics, and poor posture are common culprits behind back pain. Data analysis indicated that the type of chair used significantly impacted the occurrence of home-related injuries, with half of the reported injuries involving chairs in some way. Investing in a supportive chair can enhance comfort levels and reduce the risk of back pain.

Neck Pain

Improving chair ergonomics can also alleviate neck pain, another common complaint among individuals working from home. Apart from optimizing your office setup, it’s crucial to consider the impact of prolonged sitting on your body. Are your shoulders tense and raised? This tension can have a domino effect on your neck. Engaging in shoulder exercises can help alleviate tension and reduce the risk of neck pain. For any concerns regarding injuries, seeking medical advice is recommended.

Eye Strain

Eye strain is a reported issue among remote workers, attributed to extended screen time on computers, phones, and televisions. Implementing strategies to minimize eye strain is essential. Adhering to the 20-20-20 rule, where every 20 minutes spent on a screen is followed by a 20-second gaze at something 20 feet away, can help reduce strain and refresh your eyes. Setting reminders on your phone can assist in maintaining this practice.

Repetitive Strain

Repetitive strain injuries (RSI) resulting from excessive mouse usage or keyboard typing were also reported by individuals working from home. To mitigate RSI risks, taking regular short breaks to stretch your muscles is advisable. Similar to managing eye strain, setting reminders can help prompt you to incorporate stretching into your routine. Additionally, integrating exercise into your daily schedule can aid in alleviating RSI symptoms.

It is imperative to prioritize your health and establish a comfortable work environment while working from home. Even small adjustments can significantly contribute to your overall well-being. How has your experience of remote work been so far?

*collaborative post