Lower back pain complaints are seeing a significant spike in the UAE, with multiple factors contributing to this trend. Residents commuting from emirates like Sharjah and Ajman frequently report back pain, neck pain, and other related symptoms, largely attributed to long travel hours. Many also complain of feeling stiff and exhausted from being cooped up in cars or buses, often in fully air-conditioned environments. So, how can you tackle this discomfort? Here are a few things you should know:
Dr. Le Berre Christophe, Medical Director at PHHC and Senior Osteopath specializing in Sport, TMD, and Corporate Wellness, explained the reasons behind the increasing prevalence of this trend in the UAE. He mentioned, “Prolonged sitting and a sedentary lifestyle” – noting that “many residents work long hours in office settings or spend extended periods in traffic. Poor posture and lack of movement contribute to muscle strain and back pain, which is a huge topic of debate in the market today.”
The doctor also highlighted air-conditioned environments, which lead to muscle stiffness, reduced flexibility, and an increased risk of aches, saying, “Everyone here has a fast-paced lifestyle in terms of work, which reduces physical activity, and improper ergonomics at work and home aggravate back pain.”
Top 3 Tips to Prevent Muscle Aches:
- Stay Active and Stretch Regularly: Incorporate daily exercise or stretches focusing on the back, neck, and core muscles to keep them flexible and strong. Activities like yoga and Pilates are particularly effective.
- Stay Hydrated and Eat Balanced Meals: Proper hydration and nutrient intake are your first defense against inflammation. Magnesium and calcium, in particular, can help maintain muscle health and prevent cramping or aches.
- Maintain Proper Posture: Ensure ergonomic seating and alignment when sitting, standing, or using screens. Use lumbar supports or ergonomic chairs to reduce strain, and change your position as often as possible.
We also asked Dr. Le Berre about the rising neck strain problem; he recommended, “Gentle neck stretches, such as tilting the head side-to-side or rolling the shoulders, can relieve tension. Strengthening exercises for the upper back and neck muscles also help. Applying a warm compress can relax tense muscles, while a cold pack reduces inflammation. Use a supportive pillow to align your neck and spine properly while sleeping. Memory foam or cervical pillows are great options. Change your lifestyle first.”
Adding to this, Dr. Aazam Khan, General Physician, Dubai, said, “The causes are often right in front of us—long hours of sitting, whether in the office or behind the wheel, combined with endless screen time on phones and computers. Poor posture, inadequate hydration, a lack of vitamin D, unhealthy diets, and constant stress further exacerbate the problem. However, the solution lies in small, consistent changes: an active lifestyle, regular breaks from screens and chairs, proper posture, and prioritizing good sleep, hydration, and nutrition, including vitamin D. These simple steps can transform not just your back and neck health, but your overall well-being.”
The discussion around hybrid models and work-from-home has been in the buzz lately. Jennie Stallings, Managing Partner at ChelseaGREEN, explained why companies should adopt a hybrid model, given the traffic hassles and employee health issues. She said, “Our working lives can have a huge impact on our overall health and wellbeing. While awareness of workplace wellness is growing, it is important to know that the concept relates to more than the physical office space – the commute is big a factor too. I would encourage companies that can explore hybrid working options to discuss it with their staff and also focus on developing a more health-positive environment where employees are happy spending their time.”