Q: Are you breaking your employees’ back?

... From Biz2Biz NWA/ January 2009

A: “Techno-stress” is a byproduct of today’s workplace that frequently takes it toll on the spine. You may be designing computer programs that revolutionize the world, but you could be damaging your spine in the process.

“Sitting hunched over a keyboard can wreak havoc on your spine and can actually force your spine out of alignment,” says Dr. (first name) Smith, (credits) of Smith Family Clinic in Bentonville. “This misalignment can result in areas of restricted motion we call vertebral subluxations.”

What can employers do?

“Most chiropractors are enthusiastic proponents of on-the-job stretch breaks and encourage employers to provide employees time and space to take those posture breaks several times a day,” says Dr. Smith. “Stretching elongates and relaxes weary muscles and actually counteracts the destructive effects of sedentary work posture.”