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Office stretches: How-to video collection

Working at a desk all day can take a toll on your neck, shoulders and other muscles. Office stretches to the rescue!

By Mayo Clinic staff

Do you work at a desk all day? To prevent or reduce stiffness and pain, try simple office stretches.

The problem: Prolonged sitting

If you work at a desk or computer for long stretches of time, you may place excessive stress on certain muscles. As a result, you're likely to get stiff and sore — unless you take frequent breaks for physical activity.

The solution: Fitness breaks

Breaking up your workday with office stretches and other physical activities can help keep you comfortable while you work. You can do office stretches while you're seated at your desk or standing in your work space. You might even be able to do office stretches while you're participating in a conference call or other office activities. You don't need special equipment to do office stretches, and you won't break a sweat — yet the results can be powerful.

Watch these videos on specific office stretches to understand proper form and technique.

References
  1. Workplace stretching programs. In: Armiger P, et al. Stretching for Functional Flexibility. Philadelphia, Pa.: Lippincott Williams and Wilkins; 2010:187.

MY00921

Sept. 18, 2009

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