Headaches can start small, but it doesn’t take long for chronic episodes to cause a tangible drop in performance at work. Frequent pain makes it hard to carry on a conversation with coworkers or focus on a difficult task for a prolonged period of time. There are many potential causes of headaches in modern work environments, ranging from loud noises in a manufacturing facility to eye strain from staring at a computer screen for hours on end. Fortunately, there are a few simple strategies that help reduce the frequency of headaches throughout the day and mitigate the discomfort they cause.
Practice Good Posture
Workers who spend a lot of time sitting down, in a vehicle or in a chair, can easily fall victim to bad posture. Neck and shoulder muscles are the typically the most sensitive, and strain in these areas often produces chronic headaches. Employees are encouraged to stand up and move around at least once an hour throughout the day and monitor their own posture. Employers should also consider outfitting their office with standing desks and ergonomic chairs to help workers maintain good health.
Correct Vision Problems
Eye strain is a common cause of headaches in the workplace, especially for those who spend a lot of time on a computer. Anyone with vision problems should take steps to correct them, especially at work. Even if squinting is enough to make words legible, doing this on a regular basis strains muscles around the eye and leads to chronic head pain. Individuals with light sensitivities should also consider adjusting the light output of their monitor with a specialized screen or dimming program.
Schedule Massage Therapy Sessions
Targeted massage therapy sessions are a popular way to deal with chronic pain, including headaches and upper back pain. Licensed massage therapists, like those at the Burgman Chiropractic Clinic PC, are trained to provide supportive treatment that encourages the body to heal and recover on its own. Practicing muscle relaxation techniques on a regular basis is a great way to maximize the benefit gained from regular massage sessions.
Maintain Proper Diet and Sleeping Habits
Skipping meals or consuming too much fast food can also lead to migraines, according to the National Headache Institute. Certain types of nitrates and flavor compounds are known to contribute to chronic pain and discomfort, especially in individuals with a sensitivity. Maintaining a consistent and sufficient sleep cycle is a critical component to maintaining good health throughout the work day and is essential for staying headache-free.
Headaches are a frustrating problem that only adds to the stress that contributed to their development. Whether the pain happens randomly or occurs on a consistent basis, it should certainly not be ignored. Individuals who struggle with chronic headaches should discuss their problem with their physician to ensure that there is no underlying medical cause behind their condition.