One of the most common reasons for work absenteeism is back pain. Everyone has had back pain at one point or another. Sometimes it’s easy to identify the cause. Sometimes it seems like it appears out of nowhere. Some cases can last an hour or two and some cases can last a lifetime. One thing is for sure; it is not easy getting through a day when one has to deal with back pain. So how do you get rid of it?
First it’s important to identify the cause, especially if the back pain is reoccurring. Question your posture. Is your work space ergonomic? How are you sitting down? Is your key board too high? Is your television or computer screen too high or at a bad angle? Regardless of the reason, you need relief!!! First, you need to relax. Most of the time stress is the factor when it comes to stiff muscles. So do something that relaxes you! Taking a hot bath can often help to relieve tension. You can also use a heating pack such as a “magic bag” that can be heated up in a microwave. Heat is your friend! If you don’t have a bag get creative; fill up a two litre empty coke bottle with hot water and apply to your back.
If it doesn’t go away after a day then it’s time that you treat yourself and get a professional (or amateur…) massage. Many people have massages covered by their employment benefits and yet do not take advantage of this! Get one, you deserve it! And if the massage doesn't do the trick or if you are in really bad pain, you should see an Osteopath.
