Stop that pain in the neck

Osteopathy Can Help Neck and Shoulder Problems

Osteopaths regularly treat neck or shoulder pain and stiffness. Injury may come from whiplash, osteoarthritis or even just sleeping awkwardly. Trapped nerves can also sometimes cause pins and needles in the arm or hand.

However if you also feel unwell, have a fever, dizziness, nausea, severe headache or suddenly feel numb you should urgently seek medical help.

Prolonged repetitive tasks like sitting in front of a keyboard or games controller, as well as stress and anxiety, can all result in neck and shoulder stiffness, pain and headaches.

When we first get into a car we adjust the seat and wheel and of course make sure the headrest is in the correct position! (Prevents whiplash) But how many of us adjust our position when we sit in front of our computer? Using laptop slouched on the bed or whilst perched on the sofa is fine for watching TV or a film, but if you are using the keyboard for any length of time you really should sit up at a table.

Here are some tips on how to sit to use a computer to help reduce neck and shoulder problems.

• Make sure your back is supported, use a cushion if necessary.
• Knees should be level with your hips (knee at 90 degree angle) you may need a foot rest or box or pile of books to achieve this especially if the table is too high (refer to next point). Feet need to be flat on the floor or box, not dangling or curled around the chair.
• Shoulders and arms must be relaxed which is at waist level, the wrists should be on the same level/line as the elbow.
• Screen at eye level.
• Get up and stretch regularly.
• “iPad shoulder” is caused from bending your neck and holding an iPad for pronged periods. Prop it up to watch the screen at eye level or at least swap hands that are holding it frequently.

Debbie Crumpton – Registered Osteopath