How a home office redesign is helping to relieve chronic pain

My physical medicine and rehabilitation doctor (PMR) explained to me that when one thing is off in the body, especially with an endocrine disease like hypoparathyroidism, it can cause a ripple effect.

While my hypopara isn’t the direct cause of my myofascial pain syndrome, it is a contributing factor. My most frequent hypopara symptoms are muscle spasms and tightness. Muscles repeatedly tensing or spasming can irritate both the muscles (“myo” means muscle) and the surrounding connective tissue (“fascia“). These symptoms, combined with the repetitive action of typing with poor posture, is what my PMR doctor believes led to my new diagnoses.

While I’ve been treating my pain with physical therapy, massage therapy, and myofascial release, it was still important to address my workspace. But where would I start? Thankfully, the PMR doctor suggested I reach out to an occupational therapist (OT).

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Finally, an office space that works for me

I wrote my last book on a laptop, using its small keyboard and trackpad. The computer was primarily in my lap or on a small table while I sat in either a recliner or an oversized gaming chair. This put my neck and shoulders in the wrong position every time I typed.

My home office has a beautiful built-in desk that wraps around two walls. It was also made for someone at least a foot taller than me. How could I adjust this without a huge renovation cost?

I began by making calls. Finding an occupational therapist to do a home visit was more challenging than I expected. With every “We don’t do that,” I asked, “Do you happen to know somebody who does?” Seven calls later, I spoke to an OT who advised me that my insurance wouldn’t cover a home visit that wasn’t the result of an accident, but agreed to evaluate my space for a price of $275 an hour for three hours.

When he arrived, we went over my diagnoses, medication, and daily habits. Then he inspected my office and came up with a way to redesign it in the most cost-effective and ergonomic way. Instead of replacing the desk, I was tasked with finding a computer chair that raised 22 inches, an adjustable step stool for under my feet, and a keyboard tray. I connected my laptop to an ergonomic wireless keyboard, wireless mouse, and an external monitor that sat 18-24 inches away from my face, with my eyes falling on the top third of the screen.

My hunt for a computer chair took the most time. Thankfully, I found a local office furniture store that sold used and refurbished chairs, including high-end brands like Herman Miller. Between my frequent muscle spasms and my scoliosis, computer chairs have always caused me lower back problems. I knew that trying out as many different chairs as possible was the best solution.

I spent over an hour sitting in a multitude of chairs, with price points from $200 to $2,000. I learned that mesh seats hurt my hips and more pronounced lumbar support hurts my lower back. I also discovered I needed a seat that moved with me as opposed to a stationary or drafting chair. I chose a significantly discounted Steelcase Amia. The store even added an extra inch to the seat height to meet my requirement.

My physical therapist (PT) explained that the chair corrects my posture while I work, and to expect mild pain and stiffness, especially with my diagnoses. At her recommendation, I began a slow adjustment, sitting in the chair for only 30 minutes at a time, then increasing in intervals of 15 minutes. I’m currently at around two hours.

The changes have helped, despite bringing with them new challenges. I now use my recliner primarily for video calls and do my typing and dictation at my revamped desk space. I set a timer and take a break every 40 minutes to do a series of stretches given to me by both my OT and PT.

As I heal, I’m extremely grateful that I’ve had the opportunity to meet with an OT and remodel my workspace to better fit my needs. My office now feels like a safe space, something I’ve been struggling with for the last eight years since moving in. I can’t wait to grow my career using this new setup.

Note: Hypoparathyroidism News is a strictly news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. The opinions expressed in this column are not those of Hypoparathyroidism News or its parent company, Bionews, and are intended to spark discussion about issues pertaining to hypoparathyroidism.