Nerve damage at work? Expert blames your office chair

New Delhi: It’s 9 a.m. You’ve poured your coffee, settled into your chair, and logged onto your laptop. By noon, your back is stiff, your shoulders ache, and your wrists feel tingly. Many shrug it off as a normal part of the workday, but these are often the first signs that your nerves are under stress from long hours of sitting and poor posture.

In an interaction with TV9 English, Dr Naveen M A, HOD & Sr Consultant - Minimal Access Brain and Spine Surgery, Gleneagles BGS Hospital, Kengeri, Bangalore, explained how this can affect health.

We usually think of nerve injuries as something that happens after a fall or sports accident. Many nerve problems develop slowly, and we often don’t notice them. Sitting hunched at a desk for hours can put stress on the nerves in the neck, back, and arms. This can cause tingling, numbness, or ongoing discomfort. If ignored, these small irritations may turn into long-term issues, affecting movement, focus, and everyday comfort.

The sciatic nerve is especially prone to strain. It stretches from the lower spine down each leg. Sitting for long periods, especially with a slouched posture, compresses the lower back and buttocks, which can irritate this nerve. People often mistake the resulting pain for tight muscles, but sharp, shooting sensations or a constant numbness are the body’s way of warning that something is wrong.

Upper body nerves also take a beating. Long hours typing or leaning over a laptop can compress nerves in the neck and shoulder region, including the brachial plexus. Tingling fingers, heavy wrists, or a dull ache up the forearm are early signs that nerves are under pressure and need attention.

Many work-from-home patients spend hours on beds, sofas, or soft chairs, often with laptops perched on laps. These setups may feel comfortable at first, but they place the spine at awkward angles, increasing strain on nerves. Gradually, patients notice tingling in the hands, stiffness in the shoulders, or low back discomfort. It’s a reminder of how modern work habits—especially at home—can quietly take a toll on nerve health.

Even small habits at your desk can help. Crossing legs, slumping forward, or leaning on hard armrests may seem harmless, but over time, they increase nerve pressure and reduce circulation. Small adjustments—like sitting all the way back in your chair, keeping your shoulders relaxed, raising or lowering your seat, or supporting your lower back—can make a real difference.

Protecting your nerves doesn’t require costly equipment. A few practical steps can go a long way:

Our bodies were never meant to sit for hours at a time. Nerves quietly bear the load, sending signals long before serious damage shows up. Taking brief walks, standing during phone calls, or using a lumbar cushion or balance pad can relieve this pressure. Alternating between sitting and standing throughout the day also eases nerve strain and helps your body stay more comfortable. Acting early can save months—or even years—of discomfort.

Your office chair may seem harmless, but it can quietly affect your nervous system. Mindful posture, frequent movement, and attention to ergonomics will protect your nerves, prevent pain, and keep your body and mind healthy for the long run. Small changes today can prevent unnecessary problems tomorrow and ensure your spine and nerves remain strong.