The COVID-19 pandemic has changed many aspects of our lives, including how we dress for the office. Gone are the days of working in our pajamas. Now, as employees return to the office, they are opting for formal and semi-formal attire, perhaps in a bid to impress, but is this costing us our health?
Beware the Killer Ties and Germy Gear
A study conducted found that wearing a necktie can reduce blood flow to the brain by up to 7.5 per cent. This reduced blood flow can lead to dizziness, nausea, and headaches. On top of this, if your tie is too tight, it can increase pressure in your eyes.
Aside from the physical effects, ties also serve as a great breeding ground for germs. A survey conducted by Harris Interactive found that 87% of respondents believed ties should be washed weekly. However, only 31% of respondents actually do so.
Killer Heels: The Fashion Trend That’s Out for Revenge!
High heels have long been a staple of women’s professional attire. However, numerous studies have shown that wearing them regularly can lead to chronic pain and injuries in the feet, ankles, knees, hips, and spine.
- Feet – High heels can cause chronic pain in the ball of the foot and lead to tears and fractures in ligaments, muscles, and joints. They can also lead to inflammation and pain in the metatarsal bones, known as metatarsalgia, and cause damage to the joint capsules at the ball of your foot, known as capsulitis.
Other foot problems associated with high heels include toe deformities like bunions, hammertoes, and claw toes, as well as corns, calluses, and ingrown toenails.
- Ankles – High heels can put your foot and ankle in an unstable position, increasing your risk of sprains.
- Knees and Hips – High heels can cause extra pressure on your knees and hips, leading to chronic pain and arthritis. They can also force your hip flexor muscles into a flexed position, which can cause them to shorten and contract over time.
- Spine – High heels can disrupt your body’s natural form, causing an increased curve in your lower back known as lordosis. This can put extra pressure on your facet joints and cause pain, especially if you already have a tilted pelvis or tight quadriceps. However, wearing heels can also relieve back pain caused by structures towards the front of your spine.
Constricting Bras: The Sneaky Culprits Behind Your Daily Struggles!
Women are often told that wearing a bra is a must for a professional look. But is it doing more harm than good?
Tight bras can press on your lymphatic system and lead to skin irritation, rashes, and even fungal infections. A study conducted by University of Queensland found that 20% of women have experienced severe discomfort while wearing a bra.
Ties, Lies, and Dress Code Sighs
Despite the increasing acceptance of casual dress codes in various industries, certain professions continue to uphold formal or business formal attire as the standard. This expectation is largely rooted in the need to project professionalism and authority, aiding in the perception that both employees and clients have of your role. One such profession is that of an insurance agent. Insurance agents are often seen as trusted advisors, needing to exude confidence and credibility. Wearing a tie as part of their business attire not only enhances their professional appearance but also helps establish rapport with clients during important discussions about financial security.
In addition to insurance agents, there are several other roles where formal attire remains a requirement. Political consultants, accountants, and lawyers are expected to dress formally, adhering to industry standards that dictate clean and proper presentation.
As professionals return to formal office attire, medical practitioners may increasingly encounter patients presenting conditions linked to restrictive clothing. Doctors are likely to notice a rise in cases of headaches, musculoskeletal pain, and skin irritations, stemming from the adverse effects of ties, high heels, and tight bras.
The Bottom Line
Given these potential hazards, health insurance companies should consider offering discounts to remote workers who experience fewer workplace accidents, dodge daily commuting mishaps, and enjoy the benefits of more comfortable clothing. Such measures could promote better overall health and reduce medical expenses.
Office attire choices like ties, high heels, and tight bras can take a toll on our physical health. Instead of dressing to impress, perhaps it’s time to prioritize comfort and practicality. After all, a healthy employee is a happy and productive employee.