Top Causes of Back Pain at Work

How Fremont Spine + Wellness Can Help

Back pain is one of the most common complaints among working adults—and it’s no surprise why. Long hours at a desk, poor posture, and a lack of movement are some of the leading causes of back pain in the workplace. If you’re feeling stiff, sore, or fatigued by the end of your workday, it may be time to consider what’s really going on with your spine. In this post, we’ll explore the most common work-related triggers for back pain and how chiropractic care can help relieve discomfort and improve your quality of life.

Why Desk Jobs Are a Leading Cause of Back Pain

Desk jobs may not seem physically demanding, but they’re a major culprit when it comes to chronic spinal issues. The body wasn’t designed to sit for 8+ hours a day, especially not in slouched or unsupported positions.

When you sit for extended periods:

• The spine compresses.
• Muscles weaken due to inactivity.
• Circulation slows.
• Discs lose hydration and become more prone to injury.

All of these factors contribute to the slow buildup of discomfort that eventually turns into pain.

The Most Common Work-Related Causes of Back Pain

Understanding the causes of back pain at work can help you take proactive steps to prevent it. The most common culprits include:

• Poor Ergonomics: Sitting in a chair without lumbar support, or using a monitor that’s too low or high, puts unnecessary strain on the neck and lower back.
• Prolonged Sitting: Remaining seated for hours tightens hip flexors and weakens core muscles—key players in spinal stability.
• Poor Posture: Hunching over keyboards or slouching in your chair misaligns the spine and causes muscular imbalances over time.
• Repetitive Movements: Jobs involving repeated motions, such as typing or reaching, can lead to muscle fatigue and joint stress.
• Stress and Tension: Emotional stress often manifests physically, causing muscles—especially those in the upper back and shoulders—to tighten and ache.

Signs Your Job Is Affecting Your Spine

You might not realize how much your work is affecting your spinal health. Here are a few signs it’s time to take your back seriously:

• Midday fatigue or stiffness
• Achy lower back after sitting
• Frequent headaches or neck pain
• Tingling or numbness in arms or legs
• Pain that worsens throughout the week

If these sound familiar, you’re not alone—and you don’t have to live with it.

How a Chiropractor Can Help

At Fremont Spine + Wellness, our team specializes in identifying and correcting the underlying causes of workplace-related back pain.

Through gentle chiropractic adjustments, we help:

• Realign the spine to reduce pressure on nerves and discs
• Restore joint mobility and improve posture
• Reduce inflammation and muscle tension
• Improve circulation and natural healing

We also offer personalized wellness advice, including stretching routines and ergonomic guidance tailored to your job.

Quick Tips to Protect Your Back at Work

While chiropractic care can provide long-term relief, small daily changes also make a big impact. Try incorporating these habits into your workday:

• Use a chair with lumbar support or add a back cushion
• Keep feet flat on the floor and knees at hip level
• Position your monitor at eye level to avoid neck strain
• Take movement breaks every 30–60 minutes
• Stretch your shoulders, neck, and lower back daily
• Strengthen your core with light exercises or yoga

Your spine will thank you.

Why Choose Us

If you’re searching for a chiropractor who understands the unique challenges of working professionals, you’re in the right place. Our clinic focuses on whole-body wellness—not just quick fixes. We listen, assess, and create custom care plans designed to relieve pain, restore function, and help you thrive at work and beyond.

Schedule your appointment today!

 FAQ: Chiropractic and Work-Related Back Pain

1. What are the most common causes of back pain for office workers?
The biggest culprits include poor posture, sitting for extended periods, lack of ergonomic support, and stress-related muscle tension.

2. Can chiropractic care really help with back pain from a desk job?
Yes. Chiropractic adjustments restore spinal alignment, reduce nerve pressure, and improve mobility—directly addressing the root causes of pain.

3. How often should I visit a chiropractor if I work at a desk all day?
Many patients benefit from weekly or bi-weekly visits to start, followed by monthly maintenance care depending on their condition and goals.

4. What ergonomic changes can I make to prevent back pain at work?
Ensure your monitor is at eye level, your chair offers lumbar support, your feet are flat on the floor, and you take short movement breaks regularly.

5. Is chiropractic care safe for long-term treatment?
Absolutely. Chiropractic care is a non-invasive, drug-free approach to managing chronic pain and maintaining spinal health.