Office Chair

I don't have to fly to St. Louis after all. Big sigh of relief! My boss was kind enough to let me stay in town once she learned about my physical affliction.

For the last few months I've been suffering from sciatica, nerve damage that prevents me from sitting for long periods of time. It started innocently enough. I fidgeted in my seat at first. Not unusual since I'm naturally restless.

But later, I found myself standing in front of my pc and sometimes kneeling in front of the monitor. I would do anything to keep from sitting.

I got a break over the holidays and spent less time in front of the computer than usual. This gave my inflamed nerves a chance to heal. But as soon as I went back to work, sitting in front of a computer 8-12 hours a day, the pain returned with a vengeance.

Allow me to introduce my remedy.


Yes, I really sit on this ball. And it works great for me. Not only does it force me to control my center of gravity but there is no one pressure point compressing against my damaged nerves.

To add to my infamy at the office, I bought a second ball and brought it to work. I thought for sure I'd hear a lot of jokes, but instead I've been fielding serious questions on comfort and reliability. Apparently, a lot of other people suffer too.

At nine bucks at your local Target or Walmart, it's a bargain. If nothing else you can use it for its intended purpose of exercise.

It's not for everyone, but at least I can continue working. And it's fun too!

Comments

Jaye Wells said…
I had horrible sciatica when I was pregnant, so I feel your pain. I've heard those exercise balls work wonders.
Maria Zannini said…
Oh, I hadn't thought of sciatic pain during pregnancy. I imagine that has to be horrible never being able to get comfortable.

The ball works fine for me. I was surprised I got used to it so quickly.
rcloenen-ruiz said…
Wonderful of you to post about this ball. I have been having problems since giving birth and long sits are really tough on my back and my pelvic area. I shall look into purchasing such a ball. It might be just the solution :)
Maria Zannini said…
I hope it helps, Rochita. It's been a good alternative for me. I don't know what I would have done otherwise. 15 minutes is the maximum amount of time I can sit in an office chair.