Working from home comes with a variety of challenges, including finding time for self-care. In some cases, being at home for extended durations with less than ideal workstations or with altered daily routines has also been associated with more notable aches and pains. It is easy to scour Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and random blogs for advice where plenty of information exists (some of which is good, some of which is not). One caution with the many social media articles is that the recommendations are not appropriate for everyone, since they do not consider your personal and specific contextual factors. Sometimes the most appropriate advice for the general population is the simplest: movement is our body's best medicine. Movement has a number of physiological and psychological benefits for daily function. Importantly, a number of high-quality studies, systematic reviews, and clinical practice guidelines have suggested exercise can reduce pain and, in some cases, prevent it. Exercise can come in a number of forms, too. Regular breaks from sitting, short stretching sessions, brief walks or whatever you find enjoyable can help a great deal. There is an old adage: "motion is lotion". Regardless of if you have a standing desk, sit on an exercise ball, or have an expensive ergonomic set up, being in the same position, regardless of what position that is, is not ideal. Just as a car engine needs oil for lubrication, our joints need motion. Getting your joints moving comfortably and frequently throughout the day, and taking breaks from your screen can be essential to feeling better and working better. So, get moving, feel more comfortable and then, get back to work. However, if you are unsure on how to start moving or want some guidance, an individualized consultation with a physical therapist may be worth your time.
--Dhinu Jayaseelan, HHFR
