With a large number of us now working remotely from home as a result of the COVID-19 lock down we are seeing a lot of people contact us with pain in their hips, lower back, and neck from essentially spending more time sitting and not moving or exercising as much as normal. So here are ESP’s top tips on keeping these problems at bay and staying pain free.
When we sit in a chair our bodies can get stiff and sore particularly around our hips, lower back, shoulders and neck. The best way to reduce the risk of these types of pain is to stretch your joints through full range of motion, keep your muscles strong and maintain some cardiovascular fitness. Try performing these 4 exercises to keep yourself moving well.
Getting some form of exercise is really important for both your physical and mental health. The research tells us that regular moderate activity can have a positive effect on reducing the risk of low back pain. Understandably we are somewhat restricted with the types of exercise that we are able to perform at this time, however walking, jogging or cycling are all excellent ways to maintain or progress your physical fitness. Many people are also benefiting from exercising at home following specific training programs led by personal trainers.
One of our patients Leanne Conroy is an Online Female Fitness Coach, and she has been working hard with her clients helping them to stay in shape. She told ESP that “The lockdown has really tested my creativity with getting people moving using a variety of kit. But my clients are loving the support to keep them active, and working towards their goals”. She also went on to tell us that she has a YouTube channel where she has uploaded lots of content including workouts that she does in real time with you, using both weighted and body weight exercises. If you have any questions regarding any of the videos she has then feel free to contact her via Instagram.
Understandably with so much uncertainty at these times people are worried and stressed, and we know that this can have a negative impact on pain. To combat this try to stay as positive as you can by reflecting on the good things in your life and follow the basics of good nutrition, drinking plenty of water, getting regular exercise, and having quality sleep.
If you are in pain, and have an issue that isn’t responding to self management you can still be assessed by one of our physiotherapists remotely. So book yourself in for a video appointment here!
