A collateral victim of the deskbound lifestyle is the hamstring. Sitting all day tightens the hamstrings, which in turn start to pull on the pelvis, causing misalignment in the lower spine. This can set a precedent for pain that will leave you feeling sore as you leave the office. Anyone who is trying to unwind after a stressful day of work knows that you can do without the back pain. 

This tightening and pulling effect can be countered and reversed with a few simple stretches, performed either in the office (if you have time) or at home after work.

Resistance straightening

• Lie supine and put a resistance belt around the bottom of your foot. 
• Pull your leg up, keeping it straight the whole time and feel the stretch in the back of the leg.
• Hold this stretch as long as you can, or for up to 90 seconds. 
• Repeat with the opposite leg.

Leg crossing

• Lie supine and stretch one leg across the groin over the other leg.
• Stretch same leg out toward hip.
• Repeat with each leg.
• Again, hold for as long as possible, or up to 90 seconds. 

At Associates in Chiropractic, we offer chiropractic support for deskbound workers because we know just how bad the office can be to our backs. Along with prevention counseling, (including the above stretches), we provide you with treatment specific to the condition of your back. Call our office at (201) 342-6111 and see how we can start improving your life together. 

Dr. Albert Stabile, D.C.