A WHARFEDALE GP practice is offering tips to anyone who is suffering a common ailment due to working from home in the pandemic.

Back pain is often caused by sitting for hours in a fixed position - something many people have been doing more of due to switching to home working during the coronavirus pandemic. Westgate Surgery in Otley, which is part of OnePrimaryCare, is keen to share some expert advice on how to minimise problems.

GP and Professional Lead for Musculoskeletal Conditions, Dr Rahul Lakhera, says moving as regularly as you can is essential. She said: “No fixed position is good for our body so ensure to schedule in regular breaks during the working day. Vary your positions and see if you can do some work standing or have a walking meeting.”

Stretching will also help maintain flexibility while assessing your working set-up is essential. Dr Lakhera added: “For people working from home this is even more vital, as more likely than not you’ll be working from a makeshift desk space.”