In today's technological age, it can seem we spend more time hunched over computers than we do upright and walking. We all know what this means. Lower back pain. Most people today, regardless of age, have experienced some sort of lower back pain. We all know more pain means less productivity. And when we are unhappy in our jobs, we tend to be worse partners, friends, and parents. 
Forbes Magazine knows this. This is why the leading business news and financial magazine recommends getting regular exercise and making sure your work environment is set up to support your health in the best way possible. Your chair should be adjusted so your feet are flat on the ground and your hips and knees are bent at 90-degree angles. By doing so, you can reduce strain in your neck and back. 
In addition to taking the stairs and optimizing  your work environment, it may be a good idea to get in the habit of stretching and exercising at your desk in order to both prevent and treat pain and stiffness in your lower back. 
Forbes recommends stretching your neck by touching your ear to your shoulder every now and then. To stretch your back, hold your hips and gently bend backwards. 
Mayo Clinic expert Nicole Krupa, M.S., recommends an exercise you can do in your office chair. Begin by interlacing your fingers around your right thigh. With your knee bent, bring your leg close to your body, gently pulling your leg toward you. Be sure to keep your back straight and not to lean forward. You should feel tension in your lower back and upper buttock. Hold the stretch for 30 seconds and relax. Repeat on the left side. 
If you have 5 minutes to spare, follow along with the stretches in the video below for stretches you can do while sitting at your desk. 
While regular exercise is undoubtedly essential for all adults, especially those who work in an office environment, some exercises can, in fact, be more harm than good. WebMD warns against exercises that can further exacerbate lower back pain. Avoid push-ups, sit-ups, and leg lifts. Instead, try press-up back extensions in which you keep your forearms on the ground, partial crunches, and hamstring stretches in which you lie with your back flat on the ground. 
By doing these stretches, you can feel 10 years younger and pain free. You will be happier and more productive at work. 
How do you prevent and combat lower back pain at work? Tell us and SHARE this article on social media!