5 Ways to Protect Against Work-Related Joint Pain

Do you suffer from work-related joint pain? Joint pain is a common condition from which millions of workers suffer. There are approximately 360 joints in the human body. As you may know, a joint is an area in which two bones meet or are "joined." As you move the respective bones, the joint may succumb to inflammation. There are several things you can do to minimize work-related joint pain, however.

#1) Maintain Proper Posture

Maintaining proper posture is essential to protecting against work-related joint pain. Posture refers to the way in which you carry your body. Poor posture means you are carrying your body unnaturally. Slouching or leaning forward, for instance, indicate poor posture. Proper posture, on the other hand, means you are carrying your body naturally while minimizing stress on pressure on it.

#2) Stay Physically Active

Your physical activity levels, or lack thereof, will affect your risk of work-related joint pain. Statistics show less than one-quarter of U.S. adults get enough exercise. Insufficient exercise can take a toll on your joints. It will leave your joints feeling stiff, which can restrict your mobility while simultaneously creating joint pain.

#3) Choose an Ergonomic Desk

If you work at a desk, you may want to invest in a new desk. Some desks are more ergonomic than others. Ergonomic desks are designed specifically to minimize stress and pressure on the body. Using an ergonomic desk will lower your risk of many musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs), including those that affect the joints.

#4) Drink Plenty of Water

Whether you work indoors or outdoors, you should drink plenty of water. Dehydration is a risk factor for chronic join pain. People who are regularly dehydrated are more likely to experience joint pain than their counterparts. When you are hydrated, your joints will be lubricated. The bones in your joints can then glide smoothly without causing pain. When you are dehydrated, conversely, your joints will have less lubrication. They will be exposed to more friction as you move your bones, which can lead to joint pain.

#5) Take Breaks

Taking breaks will lower your risk of work-related joint pain. Many instances of work-related joint pain involve repetitive strain injuries (RSIs). If you perform the same manual labor task over and over -- even if it's nothing more than typing on a keyboard -- you may develop an RSI. Taking regular breaks will protect you from RSIs that could otherwise cause joint pain.