Working from home has become the new normal in Chicago. While the flexibility has many benefits, a major downside is the sharp rise in low back pain caused by makeshift home office setups. Without ergonomic support, long days at the kitchen table or on the couch can place excessive strain on the spine and surrounding muscles.
At Emerge Physical Therapy & Wellness in Lincoln Park, we specialize in identifying the root cause of low back pain and helping remote workers move and feel better quickly.
Why Working from Home Triggers Low Back Pain
Improper workstation setups encourage the body into awkward positions that overstress the spine. Common work-from-home contributors include:
Sitting for long periods without breaks
Leaning forward toward a laptop
Working from overly soft surfaces such as the couch or bed
Poor monitor height and rounded shoulders
Weak core and hip stabilizers due to inactivity
Over time, these stresses can lead to muscle tightness, joint stiffness, disc irritation, and even sciatica.
Signs Your Back Pain Needs Attention
Your body may be signaling a deeper issue if you experience:
Dull or sharp low back pain
Pain traveling into the hip or down the leg
Numbness or tingling
Morning stiffness that improves with movement
Difficulty sitting or standing for more than 20–30 minutes
Early evaluation helps prevent chronic pain and longer recovery times.
How Physical Therapy Helps Remote Workers Recover
Our licensed physical therapists deliver one-on-one care tailored to your unique needs. At Emerge PT, treatment for low back pain may include:
Manual therapy and soft tissue mobilization to reduce tightness
Strengthening programs that support the spine, especially glutes and core
Postural retraining to improve sitting and standing alignment
Ergonomic assessment and home workspace guidance
Movement and stretching strategies for throughout the workday
Our focus is not only to relieve pain but correct the root cause so you can stay active and productive.
Quick Tips to Protect Your Back While Working from Home
These simple changes can make an immediate impact:
Raise your monitor to eye level
Keep both feet flat on the ground with hips at 90 degrees
Alternate between sitting and standing
Take movement breaks every 30–45 minutes
Stretch your hip flexors and strengthen your core regularly
Consistency is key to long-term relief.
Why Choose Emerge Physical Therapy & Wellness?
Located in the heart of Lincoln Park, Chicago, we understand the physical demands remote workers face. Our clinic provides specialized orthopedic and pelvic floor physical therapy designed to help patients move better and regain confidence in their bodies.
Insurance accepted, including BCBS Illinois
Same-week appointments available
One-on-one expert care
Tailored programs for working professionals who sit for long hours
Ready to Work Without Pain?
Low back pain does not have to become your everyday reality. Our expert team can help you recover quickly and prevent the pain from returning.
Emerge Physical Therapy & Wellness – Lincoln Park, Chicago
Call Today: (312) 598-9991
Book Online: https://emergeptw.com/
Reclaim your comfort. Reclaim your productivity. Start feeling better today.
