Athletic Centre Trip

FIELD TRIP!

Sheridan Brampton Campus

On December 2nd as a class we took a trip to the Athletic Therapy Center at the Sheridan Brampton campus. We had a bunch of fun using all the equipment, standing on the vibrating machine, biking, and playing with heavy ropes. The best part was probably getting whatever ailed you worked  on. I got some pressure point release on my sciatic nerve and electrodes attached to my back to relax the muscles surrounding the nerve. Amazing. We were invited to Gillians house where we chowed down on delicious pizza, salads, fruits, snack and snacks and more snacks...and truffles...which have made their way back to the class table.

This is going to be a quick blog entry because I had so much fun and didn't take any notes, luckily they gave me a note hand out, so I'll review some good points I've learned, and there will be many exclamation points...just because I drank some coffee and am feeling enthusiastic.

Stretch!

It is important to stretch no matter how well your workstation is designed. Because working at your desk eliminates a variety of movements which can lead to muscle pain and strain.

Take Breaks!

5-10 minute breaks are recommended for every hour spend at a workstation. It's also recommended to vary your work tasks to accommodate different body positions. Look away from the screen occasionally as well.

Have a good workstation!

The three most important aspects in the work space that affect the posture are the seat, the work surface and the floor. Two of these factors have to be adjustable to ensure the best most comfortable position. If you can't afford anything else, invest in an adjustable chair, this is a must. If this is not an option provide yourself with a footrest to secure proper postural comfort.

Poor sitting habits affect your health!

Slouching while sitting and sitting with a slumped back compresses the spine and can lead to low back pain. It unbalances your head position which can cause neck and shoulder problems. 

SOME STRETCHES

Neck Relaxer Stretch

Drop your head slowly to the left, trying to touch your left ear to your left shoulder. Repeat on the right side. Slowly drop your chin to your chest, turn your head all the way to the left, then turn all the way to the right.

Middle/Upper Back Stretch
Hold your right arm with your let hand just above the elbow. Gently push your elbow toward your left shoulder. Hold stretch for 5 seconds. Repeat with your left arm.

Leg Stretch

Sit forward on the chair so that your back is not touching the chair's back. Place feet flat on the floor. With a straight leg, lift one foot a few inches off the floor. Hold momentarily, and return your foot on the floor. Repeat with the other leg.

Now you are well on your way to reducing your risk towards Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, Thoracic Outlet Syndrome, Eye Strain, Sciatic Nerve Irritation.