Back pain is a common problem in the dental industry. It’s such a problem that it’s not uncommon for this pain to cause dentists and hygienists to leave their career earlier than they’d originally planned.

Luckily, there’s a lot that dental office staff can do to relieve some of this lower back pain, even beyond utilizing dental chair accessories to better their posture and ergonomics. Here’s a few exercises and stretches staff members can practice to help reduce the low back pain they’re experiencing:

Partial Crunches: these crunches aren’t full sit-ups, but instead the lifting of your shoulders while laying within your back on the ground. This tightens your stomach muscles and strengthens your lower back muscles.

Two-Knee Twist: to complete this stretch you’ll want to lie on your back and bend your knees to your chest. With your arms out at a ‘T’ lower your knees to the ground and hold for 1-2 minutes. Complete the same motion on the other side, as well.

Legs Up the Wall: just as simple as it sounds, lie with your back to the floor and move your bottom up against a wall. Stretch your legs straight up against the wall and hold for 5 to 10 minutes. This stretch will help relax the muscles and drain fluid from the feet and ankles.

Cobra Yoga Pose: this pose allows you to stretch both your abdomen and lower back simultaneously. Simply lie on your stomach with your legs extended and palms planted on the floor on either side of your head. Slowly push upwards until your back is slightly arched and your weight is resting on your arms.

What additional stretches or exercises have you found to be beneficial for lower back pain? What does your dental office staff do to implement these or other exercises within your office? Comment below to join the conversation!