DESK WORK
AND THE SPINE
Several hours of sitting at a computer strain the lower back, neck and shoulders. With Dr. Verbitskiy in Maribor, we help reduce the pain caused by desk work through manual therapy and practical guidance.
The human body is not made for hours of motionless sitting. Prolonged sitting shortens the hip flexors, weakens the buttock and trunk muscles and increases the load on the lumbar and cervical spine. Problems usually develop slowly, so people do not take them seriously for a long time.
Why desk work hurts
The most common factors are:
- 🔹 Prolonged sitting without breaks and movement
- 🔹 Unsuitable height of the chair, desk or screen
- 🔹 A slouched head posture and rounded back when working at a computer
- 🔹 Shortened hip flexors and weakened buttock muscles
- 🔹 A lack of regular physical activity
- 🔹 Long-term stress that increases tension in the neck and shoulders
How problems from desk work present
The following often appear:
- 🔹 Pain or fatigue in the lower back towards the end of the working day
- 🔹 A stiff neck and tension between the shoulder blades
- 🔹 Pain in the shoulders and upper back
- 🔹 Headache after long work in front of a screen
- 🔹 A feeling of tightness in the hips after standing up
- 🔹 Tingling in the hands or pain in the wrist
How we treat problems from desk work
Besides treating the pain, adjusting everyday habits is an important part, so that the problems do not return.
1. Assessment of posture and movement
Examination of sitting posture, mobility of the spine and hips, and loading patterns.
2. Manual therapy
Release of tight neck, shoulder and lower back muscles and improved mobility.
3. Ergonomics and exercises
Workplace tips and short exercises that you can do during work.
Problems of desk work we help with
People most often come to us with these problems:
- 🔹 Lower back pain after eight hours of sitting
- 🔹 Tension in the neck and shoulders
- 🔹 Pain between the shoulder blades
- 🔹 A stiff, painful neck at the end of the working day
- 🔹 Tingling in the arms or legs
- 🔹 Poor posture and back fatigue
Signs that require immediate attention
Seek medical help if the pain spreads into the leg or arm with numbness or weakness, if you have problems with bladder or bowel control, if the pain appears after an injury or is accompanied by fever or unintentional weight loss. These signs require a medical examination.
For milder problems, a short course of treatment and a change in work habits are often enough; we recommend acting before the pain becomes chronic.
What our patients say
Verbitskiy, Manualna terapija - Osteopatija, diagnostika, rehabilitacija, d.o.o. · Maribor
Watch videos about manual therapy and osteopathy on our YouTube channel.
Visit YouTube channel →Frequently asked questions about desk work and spine pain
How long can I sit without a break?
A short break or a change of position every 30 to 60 minutes is recommended; regular movement throughout the day is what matters most.
Does a standing desk solve the problems?
It helps reduce sitting, but prolonged standing also loads the body. Frequently changing positions is best.
How high should the screen be?
The top edge of the screen should be roughly at eye level, so that the head is in a neutral position.
Is an ergonomic chair necessary?
It is not essential; adjusting the height and regularly changing position are more important. Good lumbar support does help.
Does manual therapy help with desk work?
It can reduce tension and improve mobility, but a lasting effect is achieved through exercises and a change in work habits.
How many treatments do I need?
It depends on how long the problem has lasted; improvement often appears after a few visits, with regular exercise.
Contact us
Get in touch with any questions or to book an appointment.
Please bring one large towel with you to your appointment.
Please confirm your appointment by phone or WhatsApp one hour beforehand, or two hours beforehand if you are travelling a long way. This way you avoid a wasted trip if an appointment has to be rescheduled at short notice.