Static Posture in the Barbershop Causes Muscle Pain; See Simple Exercises to Relieve It
Prolonged maintenance of tense postures during service reduces blood circulation and generates discomfort. Three quick movements can help barbers improve blood flow and prevent injuries.
Muscle pain is a common complaint among beauty professionals, but the main cause often lies in the mechanics of daily work. During client appointments, barbers keep their shoulders elevated, wrists at forced angles, and fingers gripping tools for long periods. This constant contraction prevents muscles from performing their natural pumping function, which is essential for delivering oxygen and nutrients.
When a muscle remains contracted without alternating between tension and relaxation, blood flow decreases significantly. With the lack of adequate fuel, irritations accumulate in the tissues, resulting in acute or chronic body pain. Beyond immediate discomfort, this routine can lead to the formation of abnormal postures over time, due to the muscular memory the body adopts to compensate for fatigue.
To combat this problem, experts suggest performing short and frequent movements during the work shift. The goal is to reactivate blood circulation in the affected muscles. Long breaks are not necessary; just a few seconds or minutes distributed throughout the day can support the professional's physical body.
Among the recommendations, one exercise stands out that combines arm swinging with spinal twisting. The technique aims to release tension, improve circulation, and calm the nervous system. To perform it, the barber should stand upright, with feet shoulder-width apart and knees slightly bent.
The execution involves letting the arms swing loosely while gently rotating the hips and torso from side to side. The head and neck should follow the body's movement, allowing the hands to lightly touch the body before twisting in the opposite direction. It is fundamental to keep the action gentle, avoiding forcing the rotation.
These movements can be performed before, during, or after the salon shift. The key to success is regularity and attention to one's own body: if any exercise causes pain or intense discomfort, it should be avoided until a health professional evaluates the situation.
BarberRicci newsroom, with information from Modern Salon (EUA).