Your desk job may not seem strenuous, but daily tasks like typing, scrolling with a mouse, and handwriting can exacerbate arthritis flare-ups. That’s not even considering the long hours spent sitting in one position, which can place excess pressure on your joints. The good news? You don’t have to just deal with it. With the right tools and strategies, it’s possible to reduce joint pain and stiffness so you can stay productive.
At Russak Personalized Medicine, our team regularly counsels folks with arthritis about how to make daily life more comfortable. Here’s a quick breakdown of the best practices for managing arthritis at your desk job.
Sitting for long hours can make you feel stiff and achy, but creating an ergonomic office can help prevent some of this discomfort. We recommend using an adjustable chair that provides lower back support, keeping your feet flat on the floor with your knees at a 90-degree angle, and adjusting your computer monitor so the screen is at eye level.
These small changes help keep your body aligned, reducing strain on your joints and improving circulation. Similarly, if you do lots of typing, using voice-to-text software can prevent wear-and-tear on your hands and fingers.
The average American spends 45% of their work day sitting, and for many, that number is much higher. These long sedentary periods place additional pressure on arthritic joints and slow blood flow, increasing the risk of stiffness.
You may not be able to leave your office and take a long walk, but even small movements can help support your joints. We recommend standing up every 30 to 60 minutes to stretch your arms, legs, hands, and back. For example, reach your arms above you to touch the sky or do a few arm rolls. Afterward, grab a drink in the breakroom or walk down the hall. Any type of physical activity can encourage circulation and reduce inflammation.
During flare-ups, you may need to take additional steps to reduce joint pain and inflammation. It can help to keep a small medical bag in your office that contains:
If you take any prescription medication for your arthritis, consider keeping a small supply in your desk drawer. That way, you’re prepared in case severe symptoms strike during the day.
If you have a good relationship with your direct supervisor, don’t be afraid to tell them about your arthritis diagnosis. You don’t need to provide much detail, but if they know you experience joint pain and stiffness, there’s a good chance they’ll work to accommodate your needs.
Most businesses understand the importance of ergonomics. They may even provide flexible scheduling to ensure you can make all your appointments with doctors and specialists.
Arthritis can add an extra layer of complexity to your work week, but it shouldn’t prevent you from enjoying your time at the office. To schedule arthritis treatment, contact us today. Call our office in Greenwood Village, Colorado, or book your visit online. We offer in-person and telehealth visits.
