PORTLAND, Ore., July 13, 2014 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Dr. Samantha Stuart D.C., P.C. is reminding Portland residents about the importance of proper ergonomics for injury prevention. Simple ergonomic changes can make a big difference for managing back and neck pain and preventing future health problems. The chiropractor says adjusting an office chair, repositioning the location of a computer keyboard on a desk, or adjusting pillows to provide better cushioning while sleeping are all examples of ergonomic enhancements. She advises that lumbar and cervical spine compression caused by poor posture can be alleviated through a combination of chiropractic care and ergonomic adjustments.
Individuals who suffer from back and neck pain may benefit from better workplace ergonomics, says Portland chiropractor Dr. Samantha Stuart. And the benefits are not just limited to preventing workplace injury; ergonomics can make a difference for people at home, too.
"Ergonomics is the science of designing and using objects in a way that allows people to safely interact with their environment," said Dr. Stuart. "Most people think of ergonomics in regards to the workplace, especially for the prevention of repetitive motion and overuse injuries. However, proper ergonomics is important at home, too."
Dr. Stuart cited a lack of cervical or lumbar spine support while sleeping as a key example of how ergonomics can impact an individual's health at home.
"Side sleepers who are experiencing lower back pain should place a pillow between their legs," said Dr. Stuart. "Doing so realigns the spine and prevents compression. The same goes for adjusting the height of an office chair or repositioning a computer screen or keyboard. These are simple changes, but they can have a significant impact for relieving chronic pain and improving quality of life."
The spine forms the body's core foundation. A misalignment in the spine impacts the entire body, increasing the risk for pain and injury. Poor spinal alignment is a contributing factor to poor posture, and vice versa, says Dr. Stuart.
"When the spine is out of alignment, it is harder for patients to practice proper posture, which then leads to further lumbar and cervical spine compression," said Dr. Stuart. "This leaves patients trapped in a cycle of spinal compression and poor posture with chronic pain and health problems."
While chiropractic adjustments are beneficial for correcting improper spinal alignment, Dr. Stuart stresses that ergonomic changes can also make a big difference.
"I always talk to patients about how their office is set up, what their daily habits are, or how they sleep at night," said Dr. Stuart. "Little changes make a difference."
Dr. Stuart provides chiropractic care for pain management, along with massage therapy, nutritional counseling, physical therapy, and personal training. To learn more about proper ergonomics, as well as the different services offered by Dr. Stuart contact her office.