AskDocDoc
/
/
/
when sitting at a computer backache can occur due to
FREE!Ask Doctors — 24/7
Connect with Doctors 24/7. Ask anything, get expert help today.
500 doctors ONLINE
#1 Medical Platform
Ask question for free
00H : 22M : 26S
background image
Click Here
background image
Bone and Orthopedic Conditions
Question #18447
187 days ago
314

when sitting at a computer backache can occur due to

Keya

I am really struggling with this back pain lately and I don’t know what to do about it! For the past few weeks, whenever I’m sitting at a computer, backache can occur due to the way my chair is set up, I think? I’ve tried adjusting it, but nothing seems to work. I spend hours in front of my computer for work and it feels like my lower back tenses up, or sometimes it just aches like crazy after a long day. I try to get up and stretch every once in a while, but that doesn’t seem to completely help. I even went to a therapist who mentioned something about posture, but that advice is a bit confusing. I mean, can backache really occur due to how I'm positioned in the chair? Or is there something wrong with me? I’ve been thinking maybe it’s my desk height or the screen not being eye level? Like am I straining my neck too? It’s frustrating because I really need to get my work done and don’t wanna feel this way, but I don’t know what changes to make! Anyone else experience this when sitting at a computer? What can I do to avoid the backache that seems to always hit me?

FREE
Question is closed
FREE! Ask a Doctor — 24/7,
100% Anonymously
Get expert answers anytime, completely confidential.
No sign-up needed.
CTA image asteriksCTA image

Doctors' responses

Backache while sitting at a computer can indeed arise from several factors related to posture and ergonomics. First, let’s tackle the chair setup. Your chair should support your lower back properly, ideally with lumbar support. Adjust the height so your feet rest flat on the floor and your knees are roughly even with your hips or slightly lower. If your feet dangle, use a footrest. It’s key to have your lower back against the backrest—avoid perching on the edge of the seat. As for desk height, you’re right to consider its impact. If your desk is too high or too low, it can cause strain. Your forearms should be parallel to the ground when typing, and your elbows should be by your sides, forming roughly a 90-degree angle. The monitor should be at eye level and about an arm’s length away to prevent neck strain, lowering your risk for cervical issues. Regarding posture, try to maintain a neutral spine position—meaning, neither slouching nor overly arched. Regular breaks are vital too; aim for a brief pause every 30-60 minutes to stand, stretch, and move around, which helps reduce muscle tension. Stretching can be beneficial, but it should target key muscle groups—your hip flexors, hamstrings, and the mid-back area. Consistent core-strengthening exercises help to support good posture throughout the day. For persistent or severe pain, consulting with a physical therapist or an ergonomic specialist may provide further tailored solutions. If you notice any red-flag symptoms like numbness, tingling, or loss of strength, it’s advisable to seek medical attention to rule out any underlying issues. Integrating these ergonomic improvements and movement habits can often substantially reduce or prevent back discomfort associated with prolonged computer use.

20648 answered questions
91% best answers
Accepted response

0 replies
FREE! Ask a Doctor — 24/7,
100% Anonymously

Get expert answers anytime, completely confidential. No sign-up needed.

About our doctors

Only qualified doctors who have confirmed the availability of medical education and other certificates of medical practice consult on our service. You can check the qualification confirmation in the doctor's profile.


Knee problem like my knee sounds char charwhen i fold them
What to do for popping thumbs with mild pain while writing and exercising?
What to do for severe stiffness and swelling in my right knee after running a half marathon?
Pain in the left knee of my mother.
Neck and Shoulder Pain in My 20-Year-Old Sister
Understanding My Mother's Post-Fall Pain
how to reduce pain in my body when back injury happened internally
What is causing swelling near my wrist and thumb that limits finger grip?
"How can I get rid of sudden, acute lower back pain?"
Can operate is possible for natural arms problem
How curable are ligament injuries and fractures after surgery if my coagulation profile is abnormal?
What could cause upper back pain and bony prominence in a 16-year-old male with symptoms of scoliosis or kyphosis?
Left Hand Pain After Work
Experiencing Numbness and Pain After a Fall
I am suffering from knee pain due to which I am not able to walk
Pain in my joints more than three years.
Pain in my neck for 3 months and nothing is helping me treat it.
How to solve this problem suffer from last 6 month
Back pain lower pain disc pain and upper back pain some times different different parts of pain in back
Can operate is possible for natural arms issue
Pain is getting worse and feeling discomfort in my right wrist
How-to reduce pain in my rightwrist
Knee Swelling and Pain During Walking
What to do if my foot swells after a fracture when I lower it below my body level?
Is there a surgical option for my fused knee joint?
Pain Relief Advice for 65-Year-Old Grandmother with High Blood Pressure and Knee Pain
BACK PAIN SUFFERINGFROM MORE THAN 6 MONTHS
Am I experiencing pain in my right hand due to carpal tunnel syndrome or is it in my head?
What are the treatment options for an osteochondral lesion and meniscus tear in my left knee?
weakness in dorsiflexion and foot slap, MRI DISC BULGE L3 L4 AND L4L5, WEAKNESS STABLE.