Could Improper Computer Use Be The Cause Of Your Back Pain?

Computers can be a great tool. You can research the absolute cheapest price on a new stereo system, take a virtual tour of a vacation resort halfway across the world or keep in touch with distant friends and relatives all with the click of a mouse. The power of computers is only getting better and better. And the more powerful they get, they more time we spend using them, for work and for fun. I mean, is there really any place in your life you don’t use a computer in some way?

While computers can make renewing your prescriptions or filling your taxes a breeze, there is one huge drawback. Our bodies were not designed to sit in a chair with our hands propped up while we stare at a glowing screen for hours and hours. Prolonged time at the keyboard and computer can give rise to some rather nasty ailments and injuries. These small problems can lead to bigger problems later in life if not corrected early.

Low back ache is a very common ailment that occurs from central processing unit use. Using the incorrect type of chair at the mainframe is usually the culprit here – either that or not taking the time to correctly adjusts it. If you have unfortunate position when sitting this can also create an uneven distribution of weight on your spine, which leads to soreness. Another reason is an inappropriately configured desk setup. For example, do you find yourself leaning and stretching without cause as you labor?

Shoulder and neck pain can be another problem. Do you find yourself repeatedly looking up and down referencing a document when you’re at the computer? If so this may be the cause of your pain. Another killer when it comes to shoulder and neck pain is using a phone wedged into the side of your neck. Spend the couple of bucks on a hands-free headset – its well worth it!

If you specifically suffer from knee pain, it’s usually caused by sitting in a chair that is too high, which leaves your feet dangling and unsupported. How about hurting knees and buttocks? Believe it or not, the most common cause here is just sitting on your butt way too long! Your body doesn’t like that. Poor lumbar support can make the problem even worse.

The position of your mouse and computer chair also plays a critical factor. Monitor glare is the enemy for eye strain. Whether it’s artificial light or sunlight being reflected off your monitor screen, glare can cause some serious pain. Try rearranging your workspace if you regularly experience eye strain. Where do you rest your wrists when you type? Resting your wrists on a hard or uncomfortable edge can definitely be the cause of hand pain.

So how do you overcome computer soreness? One of the simplest and greatest actions is to just take regular breaks during the day. This certainly sounds easy, but it works like a charm. Let’s face it – when most of us get sucked into our computer, we don’t pay any awareness how our body feels. Take a little stretch or stroll and take your eyes off the screen. It doesn’t have to be an extended break – five minutes every hour should work wonders.

As you probably already know, chiropractic isn’t just about relieving the pain you have now, it’s about eliminating any of your future pain too! During your next chiropractic visit, please be sure to let your chiropractor know if you find yourself experiencing any of the computer related pain we spoke about here. Even if it’s not serious pain – by letting your chiropractor know about it, they can make sure it never gets serious.

Want to find out more about posture, then visit the chiropractic site on how to choose the best chiropractor for your needs.