Please note that these aren't medical recommendations. Be sure to check with your doctor before starting any kind of treatment.
1. An anti-fatigue mat to help prevent soreness if you spend long hours using a standing desk. The soft foam core can reduce stress on the knees, muscles, and joints, so you'll be one step closer to a pain-free WFH experience!
2. A seat cushion pillow that'll maximize comfort and help improve your posture while you sit at your desk. This memory foam pillow adapts to your body while delivering ~amazing~ support and pressure relief.
Promising review: "This is just what I needed. It gives good support right where I wanted it and makes me feel much more comfortable. It has a removable cover for washing if needed. Very well made and not too bulky, I can take it in the car or anywhere. This is really great for my low back and tailbone pain." —Michelle Sparks
Get it from Amazon for $39.99+ (available in five colors).
3. And a lumbar support pillow for proper back support. Ever catch yourself slumping down in your chair and then wonder why your back hurts? This lumbar support pillow *literally* has your back.
Promising review: "My chiropractor recommended this back pillow for my chair at work and it has been such a lifesaver! I am a receptionist and sit a majority of the day, which was really giving me lower back issues. I was pleasantly surprised by how supportive and comfortable this back pillow is! It gives me the support I need, was SUPER easy to put on my chair, and doesn't slide or move around. It has really made a difference!" —Ram Rod
Get it from Amazon for $28.99+ (available in five colors).
P.S. If you want to get your hands on both the seat cushion pillow and the lumbar support pillow, they're available cheaper when purchased as a set.
4. A posture corrector and trainer because we could all use the occasional reminder to stop slouching! Plus, improving your posture can also help reduce long-term WFH pain. This device vibrates to let you know it's time to straighten up. It connects to an app that's designed to help you improve your posture.
The whole thing includes the posture corrector itself, a travel case, a USB charging cable, nine reusable hypoallergenic medical grade adhesives, and a user manual!
Promising Review: "I have developed the rounded shoulders and head forward, pelvic tilt. Now that I'm older, I can tell If I don't fix this posture I am going to have a world of pain ahead of me. I've used this and feel it does help, it reminds me and allows me to see how I sit in my home office chair, in my work office chair, on my couch, in my car, etc. That way I can make every area ergo. Also, it is a reminder throughout the day. Also, it has a short training period where you wear for a few hours to get used to it and train your body in intervals." —ilovebooks
Get it from Amazon for $79.69.
5. And a memory foam footrest if you're looking for additional ways to be mindful of your posture. It's also great for sore feet and those with short legs that dangle in the seated position!
This footrest is adjustable and can be used with or without the base, which lets you add or remove two inches (6" with base, 4" without the base). You can also flip it over and use it as a rocker if you have fidgety feet. The removable cover is machine washable.
Promising review: "After a year of working from home on my bed, my posture had got more than a bit out of whack. When I finally got a chance to build a home office with an actual desk and a really good chair, I still couldn't get comfortable, so I ordered this footrest on a total whim and it has made all the difference. The best thing is that I can focus for much longer periods because my body is so much more comfortable. I'm really glad I took the plunge on this velvety squishy cushion." —Packet Roe
Get it from Amazon for $44.95+ (available in three colors).
6. A ventilated laptop stand so you can elevate your screen to eye level, which works wonders for reducing neck strain. It also has a well-ventilated design so your laptop fan has room to breathe without overheating.
Promising review: "I have bought a handful of these for my family and personally have used it for a long time. It makes me cringe when I go to coffee shops and see people hunched over their laptops while straining their necks. This stand is worth every penny! It's very sturdy and holds my 15.6-inch laptop with no problem. I love how it allows me to maintain a good posture and not strain my neck. All of this for a fraction of the cost of a visit to the chiropractor! Would highly recommend!" —Aaron A.
Get it from Amazon for $23.77.
7. A sit-to-stand desk converter for anyone who wants the option to stand while working without spending a pretty penny on a new desk. Changing positions throughout the day is a great way to prevent aches and pains. Simply place it on top of your existing desk and use the handle to raise or lower the height!
About a year into working remotely due to the pandemic, I finally decided it was time to invest in a standing desk for my home office. I already had a desk I wasn't ready to part with, so I chose this sit-to-stand desk converter. Let me tell you, this has changed my WFH experience for the better. The desktop area is large enough for my laptop, external monitor, Bluetooth speaker, and a few other items. The desktop can accommodate up to 33 lbs and the keyboard tray can support up to 4 lbs. The pneumatic lift assist feature lets you adjust the height between 4.5" and 20" in one smooth motion that won't strain your back.
Promising review: "This has made life SO MUCH BETTER!!! I hate sitting down all day hunching and reaching for my keyboard and mouse. While I'm sitting down, this helps correct poor posture. When I need to stand/move a bit, I can lift it up and work standing! This is a great invention and is very sturdy." —Andrew Drozdowski
Get it from Amazon for $124.99+ (available in five sizes and five colors).
8. Or an adjustable standing desk when you're ready to revamp your WFH setup. You can use this desk to both sit and stand while you work. Plus, the sleek design will look absolutely stunning in any home office!
These standing desks are the pinnacle of convenience thanks to the motor lift mechanism that delivers silky-smooth height adjustments. You can adjust the height from 28" to 47.6" depending on whether you're sitting or standing. Each desk is equipped with an industrial-grade steel frame and a solid wood desktop with a weight capacity of 154 lbs. Best of all? You won't be stuck sitting down for several hours and ending each day with back pain.
Promising review: "The sit-to-stand option is amazing and I'm so happy with my desk. I lead video conferences all day so the option to sit or stand has made working a breeze. No more back/neck soreness or feeling 'blah' after a long day of sitting. I got the slightly larger size and am glad that I did. It gives me space for double monitors, keyboard, and any papers I need to have in front of me. Overall, I'm a satisfied customer and recommend this desk to anyone who wants to make the switch to standing desks on a budget!" —Sasha K.
Get it from Amazon for $249.99+ (available in five sizes and eight color schemes).
9. A document clip that'll make it *much* easier to glance at your notes while typing. Rather than bobbing your head around and straining your neck, this clip holds your notes at eye level.
Promising Review: "THIS stopped all my frequent head and neck aches caused from looking too far down while using the computer at work. Love it." —Dustin Vargas
Get it from Amazon for $11.29.
10. A memory foam wrist pad set to give your wrists a well-deserved break. When you spend hours typing and clicking away, you may eventually develop wrist pain. Invest in a wrist pad set and prevent it from the jump!
11. And a pair of compression gloves if wrist pain is ~hands down~ the worst part of your day. These gloves will help relieve pain associated with arthritis and carpal tunnel syndrome so you can survive the workday.
Promising reviews: "I've tried other arthritis gloves and these are the best. I sleep with them on so my hands are not so achy in the morning. They are also great when I'm on the computer writing papers. Not bulky at all and great compression without restriction." —Kristy Cameron
"I ordered these because I suffer from RA and have a job that requires me to work multiple hours on a computer. These gloves work well to alleviate the joint pain in my hands on most days. I recommend them for anyone who suffers with painful joints in their hands." —MamaC
Get a pair from Amazon for $19.97 (available in three sizes).
12. A nerve pain salve with all-natural ingredients that you can apply to any areas that experience pain. It's great for improving circulation and reducing inflammation, too. After a long day at the office, rub some of this on your problem areas!
Bekks Essentials is a Cali-based Etsy shop that makes skin and body plant-based products, including a variety of salves, cleaners, and moisturizers.
Promising review: "I LOVE this nerve pain salve! I have severe nerve pain from my left low back radiating to my toe and it always is very painful and debilitating. This salve gives me comfort and relief. Thank you so much." —cassiedesi1
Get it from Bekks Essentials on Etsy for $22.50.
13. Or Prima's R+R cream with 750mg CBD for anyone who needs fast-acting pain relief for WFH aches. In addition to cooling menthol, it also contains tea tree, lavender, rosemary, and peppermint so you can truly relax while you recover.
Promising review: "I had never tried a CBD cream, but this is absolutely fantastic on sore muscles or joints. I get regular hip and back pain (probably from bad posture), and this really helps soothe the aches. It is expensive, for sure, but I would definitely recommend that anyone trying to find relief from general body soreness give it a shot." —luckindeed
Get it from Sephora for $38.
14. A pair of blue-light-blocking glasses so you can protect your sensitive eyes from blue light while also preventing eye strain. Whether you're scrolling through business contacts on your phone or typing a memo on your laptop, it's time to give your eyes a bit of TLC!
Promising review: "I'm a photographer/content creator, so I spend a LOT of time in front of a screen of sorts. I was experiencing a lot of eye pain and saw these, so I thought I'd give them a shot. Instant relief, y'all. Now, when I'm editing my photos, I do have to randomly look without the glasses on just to make sure I'm not making my photos too 'warm,' but looking at a screen for a couple of seconds every so often is nothing compared to the HOURS I was staring at it before. Great glasses!!" —Shea
Get a pack of two from Amazon for $15.98+ (available in eight style combinations).
15. An eye massager if you've fallen victim to eye pain and headaches after far too much screentime. It has multiple modes that allow you to combine heat, massage, and compression or you can use them individually.
Promising review: "This is the best product I have ever owned. As an online graphic design student who is constantly behind the computer, I can honestly say that this is the cure to computer head. Those headaches and eye strain are gone after a session with this product. If you suffer from migraines or are constantly behind a screen, trust me when I say that this is a must-have in your life. No amount of Advil will compare to what this will do for you. The sessions are about 20 minutes long and it pays to sit through the whole thing. This is the best invention ever." —melanie anderson
Get it from Amazon for $69.99+ (available in two colors).
16. A set of migraine relief shower steamers because who doesn't want to step into bliss after a stressful day that ended with a headache? These steamers contain soothing essential oils and menthol so you can wash off the day while also relieving some pain. We love a win-win!
In The Forest Bath Co. is a Colorado-based Etsy shop established in 2020 that specializes in handmade bath and body products.
Promising review: "These shower steamers worked so well for my headaches! They don't dissolve too quickly as long as you follow the directions, they're packaged nicely, and the smell is great." —Courtney
Get a pack of six from In The Forest Bath Co. on Etsy for $12.
17. And a roll-on migraine stick for a quick fix when a headache hits and you need that sweet, immediate relief. It contains spearmint, peppermint, and lavender oils to help soothe the pain associated with migraines.
Promising review: "I’ve had migraines all my life — I’m 31 now. I’ve been on all kinds of prescriptions that work, but make me so sleepy... I’ve been using this stick for one week now, and it’s amazing! I rubbed it on at the first hint of a headache/migraine and it takes care of it fast. I haven’t taken a prescription migraine since I started using it." —Amanda Braswell
Read BuzzFeed's review of the migraine stick for more deets!
Get it from Amazon for $11.99.
18. An ice roller when all you want to do is ~chill out~ and get rid of some of that pain. Schedule some self-care time and use this handy tool to help relieve the occasional migraine.
Some reviewers have gotten creative and used this ice roller on other parts of the body that experience pain!
Promising reviews: "I actually bought this to use when I get migraines and it really helps. I keep the roller in my freezer until I need it. When I get a migraine I take it out and rub it on the back side of my neck and all over my head and eyes as needed. It gives me instant relief from pain. Does not take away the migraine, but does lessen the pain." —Mikell D.
"I used this on my foot, the arch area, and it was very soothing and did provide pain relief. I had gotten up with severe foot pain, and this device worked very well, targeting the swelling/area where I felt the most pain. Plan to use it when I have my chronic arthritic problems: neck pain, wrists, etc." —Nydia Felix
Get it from Amazon for $18.99+ (available in nine colors).
19. A cooling Biofreeze gel that's perfect for treating those sore muscles and joints you've been neglecting after a long day spent hunched over your laptop. It contains a blend of menthol, aloe, and calendula to deliver long-lasting relief that'll have you saying, "ahhhh!"
Promising review: "I have some arthritis in my neck and it is one of many things that triggers my migraines. Since putting something cool on my neck usually helps, I tried this when I was at work and it made it possible for me to make it through the rest of the day until I could go home and go to bed. I ordered a second bottle of it so I can have some with me at all times." —joanna
Get it from Amazon for $12.64.
20. An electronic pulse massager if you're ready to take your pain relief up a notch — quite literally! This electrotherapy device delivers high-frequency pulses to provide pain relief. It comes with the unit, wires, pads, and batteries.
This is actually a "TENS unit," which stands for transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation. You attach the pads to your skin, and the unit sends electrical currents through to your muscles! (Trans = across, cutaneous = relating to skin, so transcutaneous = passing through the skin.) Anywho, this has 20 intensity levels and 15 massage-mimicking modes, so you can customize it to your comfort!
Promising Review: "This little machine has made a world of difference for me. I work at a computer all day — I'm mindful to start with good posture and before you know it I'm leaning so far forward that my chin's on the desk. Ok, slight exaggeration, but not too far off. It has caused a lot of pain in my neck & shoulders to the point where it was affecting my job. I also have TMJ and I was getting severe headaches and facial pain. I was at my wits end because I have a prior neck injury, so a heating pad is the most I could do to treat it, until this magical thing came along. I put the pads on my shoulders and used it on 2–3 (I prefer kneading, cupping, or scraping) and I could feel relief on the very first day. Now I just use it when I feel the first signs of pain coming on and I can usually head it off." —McShmelke
Get it from Amazon for $29.99.
21. A small but mighty Theragun Mini so you can say goodbye to any tension you've been carrying around with an at-home massage. It can also help you recover faster if you've been hitting the gym after work.
BuzzFeed Shopping editor Melanie Aman loves her Theragun Mini and says: "Exercising has been a huge boost to my mental health during quarantine, but the DOMS, man — the DOMS hurt like hell!! I'm talking hurts to walk, hurts to lower myself and sit, hurts to stand up, hurts to lift things heavier than a stuffed animal, hurts to exist. I learned early on that this little gadget was suuuuuuuuper helpful in reducing my discomfort and loosening my tight, angry muscles. While jackhammering my calves and thighs is not an incredibly fun experience (TBH it hurts especially when I'm massaging already sore muscles), I know the next day I'll wake up with significantly less pain."
Promising review: "So compact and so helpful after a day of mountain biking! I am working from home and it’s great to be able to take care of my muscles after sitting around more than normal." —Jason Goldberg
Get it from Amazon for $159 (available in four colors).
22. A neck and shoulder relaxer to help you relax after a looong day when you just can seem to shake that stiffness in your neck and shoulders. Whether you've had a day of back-to-back work meetings or nonstop phone calls, this relaxer will do its job!
(Psst — you should consult with your doctor before trying anything new involving your neck/back area to make sure it's safe for you!)
For this, instead of like a regular pillow, you're supposed to lay on this in ten-minute intervals; the seller suggests working your way up to it by starting yourself off at five minutes at a time, with a one to three day adjustment period before regular use.
Promising review: "Like many others, my C-curve was getting messed up due to my continued computer work and overall horrible posture. This has been a game changer for me; 10 min the morning and 15 at night while listening to an audible book or meditating and I am sleeping better, have better range of motion for my neck and a lot of morning neck pain from sleeping is gone. Why didn't I do this sooner?" —Molly Hiserman
Get it from Amazon for $19.54 (available in five colors).
23. A neck-and-shoulder heat/cold wrap for taking the edge off the pain without having to worry about whether the wrap is going to stay put. It has a contoured design that ensures it stays in place while you're using it!
BioMed DB Design is a Washington-based small business established in 2010 that specializes in ergonomically designed hot and cold therapy packs.
For a half hour of heat, you can microwave it for two minutes; for cold therapy, you can leave it in the freezer.
Promising review: "The neck-and-shoulder heater came on time. I love the style of it with the upright collar. Stays warm for a half hour and the main reason I bought it was because it wasn't scented...had a hard time finding a neck warmer that wasn't aromatherapy. Very well made. I toss it in the microwave, throw it over my shoulders, and sit in my recliner and heat up my neck, then do some neck stretches as warm muscles are more flexible. Has been a godsend for my stiff-tight neck muscles, keep up the good work!!!" —Kathy
Get it from BioMed DB Design on Etsy for $35.99.
24. A back pain relief gel pack that'll be *exactly* what you need after hours of sitting at your desk only to get up and realize your lower back is paying the ultimate price. This gel pack can be used for both hot and cold therapy, too.
Each of these comes equipped with two gel packs so you can alternate between hot and cold whenever you need!
Promising review: "I have had back and hip pain for quite some time. I have a herniated disc in my lower back and sit in an office chair all day. I tend to pull muscles in my back and shoulders frequently, so I finally broke down and bought a hot/cold pack. I've been using it for a most recent pulled muscle in my lower back and it has worked WONDERS. I've been alternating between hot and cold, which is easy to do since it came in a two pack. I couldn't be more happy with my purchase and highly recommend it to anyone who is unsure." —Heather Smith
Get it from Amazon for $24.99.
25. Or a king-size heating pad if you're all about that heat when it comes to treating your WFH pain. This monster is big enough to drape over your shoulders or cover your entire back depending on what areas you need to target.
The pad heats quickly and has six different heat settings to find your perfect fit.
Promising review: "Really good product! Heats fast and safe. You can adjust the heat from level 1 to level 6. The fiber is comfortable. I used it for two purposes. To relieve my shoulder pain. Every day I need to sit in front of the computer for a long time. Sometimes I do some workouts and running. I used it to relieve my muscle soreness. Recommend this product to everyone who needs it!" —Leila
Get it from Amazon for $29.99 (available in four colors).
26. A massage chair pad when you need relief while you're working and can't wait a minute longer. You can just as easily use it when you're chillin' on the couch watching your fave show. Yay for versatility!
This massager has four deep kneading massage nodes that travel up and down the pad to relax your entire back. You can choose from three massage zones: full back, upper back, or lower back. Depending on your needs, you can also choose whether you want a gentle massage or more intense pressure thanks to the intensity control flap. There's a spot massage setting that lets you concentrate the kneading on a specific area. The optional heat therapy feature warms your back while simultaneously relaxing any tense muscles across your back and shoulders.
Promising reviews: "I liked it very much. It really helps people who sit in front of computer and work. Especially for IT People, this product helps to get relief from back aches and get refreshed every day." —Phanikumar Bezawada
"I’m still working from home and I have it on my office chair and it makes such a difference. Amazingly it still works after using it almost every day and many evenings for over a year. Hits the spots on my back. Love it." —Amazon Customer
Get it from Amazon for $99.99 (available in three colors).
27. Or a neck and back massager so you can enjoy a relaxing massage whenever AND wherever you please. It has eight rotating kneading rollers and three different speed settings so you're in total control of intensity. It also has a soothing heat function that's a one-way ticket to relaxation town!
Promising review: "Working at my desk, my neck and shoulders do become painful. I use this beauty on my lunch break and it gets me to the end of the day, relieving any pain or tight muscles. I do enjoy the heat mechanism at times. I understand why they say only use it for 15 minutes at a time because it does deliver a deep massage. I do enjoy the controls it has you can change the rotation and the depth of the massage, and use with or without heat. This is definitely a five star item and I will be buying it again! If not for me for someone else." —LindaAmazon Customer
Get it from Amazon for $45.99 (available in three colors).
28. Or an acupressure mat and pillow for anyone who must be horizontal to truly relax. It'll help reduce tension the moment you rest your head. This mat uses acupressure points massage to alleviate stress and sore muscles. Be prepared to drift off to sleep while using this! Is that really such a bad thing?
Now, if you're looking at this and scratching your head, here's a fun guide on how to use this acupressure mat former BuzzFeeders Rachel and John wrote up, from firsthand experience!
Promising Review: "I thought this was too good to be true. The first time I used this item was after a long day with poor posture in an office chair. I laid down on this mat for five minutes and all of my pain disappeared. I highly recommend this product. Make sure you are wear a thin shirt when using this or else you won’t feel the benefits." —Ms. Romo
Get it from Amazon for $25.28 (available in nine colors).