Why Working from the Sofa (or Your Bed) Is a Terrible Idea 💻

We get it. The sofa is comfy, the bed is warm, and the idea of working in your pyjamas sounds dreamy (especially when you’re WFH). But if you’ve been noticing new aches in your neck, shoulders, hips or back, your “cosy” work setup might be the culprit.

As osteopaths, we see this all the time. And trust us: your sofa was made for slouching, not spreadsheets.

Here’s why it’s time to ditch the duvet office…

🛋️ Sofas and Beds Aren’t Designed for Working

Your sofa is great for Netflix, but not so much for posture. The cushions are soft, low, and offer very little support. You’re more likely to slump, twist, or crane your neck when using a laptop on your lap or balancing it on the armrest. Over time, this puts strain on your spine, shoulders, and hips.

Your bed is even worse. Unless you’re sitting upright with excellent pillow support (which most people aren’t), it encourages a “C-shaped” slump – a recipe for neck tension and lower back pain.

😵 What Happens to Your Body?

Here’s what working from bed or sofa can do to your body over time:

• Rounded shoulders & forward head posture
• Neck and upper back tension
• Hip tightness and lower back strain
• Poor breathing patterns due to slouching
• Circulation issues from prolonged poor positioning
• Headaches caused by neck and jaw tension

Even if you’re young and relatively active, poor working posture adds up fast.

🙋‍♂️ But I Don’t Have a Home Office…

We hear this a lot – but that doesn’t mean you’re stuck.

Even a small corner setup with a kitchen chair, a stack of books to raise your laptop, and a rolled towel for back support is better than a bed-desk combo. You don’t need perfection. You need support, variety, and a chance for your body to move.

✅ What to Do Instead

1. Sit upright at a desk or table (not a soft surface)
Use a chair with back support, feet flat on the floor, and your screen at eye level.

2. Use a separate keyboard and mouse
This helps avoid hunching over your laptop.

3. Move often
Get up at least once every 30–45 minutes. A quick stretch or walk around the room resets your posture and boosts circulation.

4. Try a standing desk for part of the day
You can create a makeshift version using a countertop or tall chest of drawers.

5. Don’t underestimate support
A lumbar cushion, footrest, or wrist pad can make a big difference.

🧠 Final Thoughts from the Body Zest Team

Your body thrives on variety and support. While the sofa may seem like the easy option, your spine, hips, and shoulders will thank you for taking the time to work in a posture-friendly position.

If working from home has left you feeling stiff, sore, or constantly achy, it might be time for a professional check-in. Our osteopaths can help you identify postural issues, release built-up tension, and create a personalised plan to support your body through the workday.

✅ Book an Osteopathy Appointment in Banstead

Whether it’s tech neck, hip tension, or low back pain from too much screen time, we’re here to help.

📍Body Zest | Banstead, Surrey
📅 Book your osteopathy appointment here