Neck pain is the second most common reason patients seek chiropractic care, and it’s particularly a problem with office workers. One study estimated that neck pain affects 42-69% of those who work in office environments. Many individuals will experience recurring episodes of neck pain. At least one in six may develop chronic, ongoing neck pain. Chiropractors offer a safe and effective way to manage neck pain. Are there any steps an office worker can take to reduce the risk of neck pain in the first place?
Neck Pain Prevention Study
According to one study, taking a daily walk may be an effective neck pain prevention strategy. The study included 387 office workers without spinal symptoms in the previous three months. Researchers asked participants to wear a pedometer and note any spinal pain symptoms over the next year.
Of the 367 participants who completed the study, 16% reported the onset of neck pain. The results showed that for every 1,000 steps a participant averaged each day, their risk for neck pain fell by 14%. The authors concluded that increasing daily walking steps is protective for the onset of neck pain. Those who work/manage sedentary jobs should formulate and test strategies to encourage walking to reduce neck pain amongst employees.
What about other forms of exercise? A meta-analysis of data from two randomized control trials included over 500 participants. It showed moderate-quality evidence that participating in a workplace exercise program can reduce the risk of developing a new episode of neck pain up to 68%. In the first trial, participants performed stretching and endurance training twice a day at work and home. The second trial involved a combination of strength, stabilization, aerobic, and body awareness exercises. These included health information, ergonomic training, and stress management training 3x a week for one hour over a nine-month time frame.
Chiropractic Conclusion
While it’s not possible to completely avoid a condition like neck pain, the evidence suggests that regularly engaging in physical activity may substantially lower the risk. For those who do develop neck pain, it’s important to seek chiropractic care as soon as possible, which may lead to a faster resolution of symptoms and reduce the risk for both neck pain recurrence and chronic neck pain.
