Proper Computer Posture
By Katie Trumble, PT
Proper Computer Posture
My Computer is a Real Pain in the Neck!
With the advancement of technology more people are developing neck issues related to improper computer posture. Whether we are at work, school, or home, many of us spend long periods of time sitting in front of a computer. As a result we pay little attention to our body mechanics or posture. The only time we think about our posture is when we start to have pain. Usually the pain will go away if we move or change positions. However, over time poor sitting mechanics while in front of a computer can start having lasting effects.
What used to only hurt after being in front of the computer for a long period of time now starts to bother you after a short time, or even worse, when you haven’t even been on it! Most of us can’t quit our jobs so we need to figure out how to fix this problem.
As a physical therapist for JOI Rehab, I often have patients come to me with complaints of neck or shoulder pain. Many times, they can not describe a specific injury that caused this pain. After some investigating we find that their pain comes about after spending time on the computer.
For most people this horrible condition gets better, once they determine the root cause and changes are made. Usually if someone sits long enough in front of a computer with poor body mechanics, the body will respond by sending your brain a message that something hurts. Unfortunately at this point, you have already caused some irritation or possibly damage to the involved soft tissue. Poor posture is not going to change without an individual making the decision themselves and the longer that you wait the more likely you are to experience issues.
Click to Learn more about Ergonomics.
Neck Pain Symptoms
In the early stages, pain is noticed only if you have sat for a long time with poor posture. It is easily relieved if you get up and move around. This takes the strain off of the tissue that you have been stretching and gives it a break. Eventually if the poor posture continues, it takes less time before you begin to hurt and more time to get relief when moving away from your computer. For some, this can lead to pain without ever sitting at your computer. Don’t be this guy! Do something about it before it gets to that point.
Most of the problems associated with neck pain from sitting in front of your computer can be alleviated with a little knowledge and a desire to get better. If you think you may have this condition, talk to one of the professionals at JOI. There are a variety of exercises that can help improve sitting posture and decrease or eliminate your pain.
Proper Computer Posture
Incorrect Computer Posture
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