Google teamed up with a group of doctors to help give you accurate medical info when you search common health conditions. We tested it out by searching "low back pain". Very cool! Click below to see the results.

Google Search Results for "Low Back Pain"

I put together a short ergonomics checklist to assess your workstation. After answering 13 yes/no questions, it'll provide recommendations for adjustments you can make to your workstation to reduce stress on your neck and back. Click the link below to get started.

Related: Simple Workstation Ergonomics Tips

The setup of your workstation can have a major impact on your health! Here's some simple ergonomics tips to reduce stress on your back and neck:

1. Position the top of your monitor screen to be at eye level or slightly below eye level.
2. Center your body in front of the monitor and keyboard so that you're not constantly twisting your back.
3. Forearms should be level or tilted-up slightly, and wrists should not rest while typing.
4. Chair should provide lower back support.

I find it helps to set a timer to go off every half hour to remind yourself to get back into good posture position. I'll go into more detail on workstation ergonomics in upcoming posts, so stay tuned!

For a personal assessment of your workstation, schedule an appointment.

Related: Ergonomic Needs Assessment

An overview of low back pain and some of its causes. Physical therapists examine and evaluate a person thoroughly to determine the cause of pain and design an individualized treatment plan.

1. Limit the amount of snow you pick up with your shovel. Wet snow and ice can be heavier than it looks. The heavier the weight and the farther you hold it away from your body the more stress you will put on your back.
2. Bend and lift with your knees. Let your knees do some of the work. If you keep your knees straight and bend at the back you are forcing postural muscles to lift a heavy weight, something they are not meant to do. On the other hand, if you bend your knees and keep your back straight and your core activated you can protect your back and let your leg muscles do the work. They are much more suited for the job.
3. Never lift and twist! As you lift that heavy snow make sure your back does not twist. Use your arms to throw that snow off to the side. Lifting and twisting together puts extra force on the discs in your spine and can lead to back issues.
   

Stay safe and warm!

The stress of school is hard, but adding back pain to it makes it impossible! Backpacks are essential to staying organized in school, but carrying too much weight could effect posture, balance, and the way a person walks. 
Follow these simple tips to help you or your child relieve back, neck, or shoulder pain caused by a heavy backpack.