Is Technology Becoming a Pain in the Neck for You?
By Sandy Schroeder
Some researchers and doctors say laptops, iPads and smartphones have created a society in which everyone hunches over screens nonstop, often creating painful problems. The neck moves out of its normal neutral position, and the neck muscles are stressed so much that they almost lock into place, according to Harvard Health.
If you are a parent who bends over small children a lot, reading to them and holding them, this adds to the problem. At the same time, thumbs are overworked with constant texting.
How Your Chiropractor Can Help
Finding the best answers to digital problems could start at The Joint Chiropractic clinic near you, where solutions for health, wellness and fitness happen every day.
When you come in, be prepared to get to know your chiropractor as you discuss your digital habits, any neck pain that you are having, and your health history. A simple targeted spinal adjustment may provide far-reaching pain relief and an overall sense of wellness.
Weekly 15-minute spinal adjustments may be the answer to keep you at your peak. At the same time, you can focus on ways to adapt to digital challenges, such as these suggestions from Harvard Health.
Provide an attractive focus – Choose one of your favorite prints or photographs and hang it on the wall in front of your desk. Then you will be more apt to look straight ahead, letting your neck muscles relax for a few minutes.
Use body awareness – Being aware of your posture and keeping all of your screens at eye level will help. When you stand up, slightly rotate your pelvis forward to keep the curve in your lower spine and raise the upper body.
Stay hydrated – If you keep a bottle of water on your desk and drink it, you will be healthier. You will also have to get up to go to the bathroom at intervals. Setting a timer to remind you to walk around works, but having to go to the restroom may be even more effective.
Get the correct pillow – Test it while lying on your side. Open your eyes. You should be looking straight ahead with your head level. The space from your shoulder to your ear should be filled with a soft pillow that gives with the weight of the head, such as a down-filled one.
Fight hunching with fitness – Do a pull instead of a push exercise to work your mid-back and prevent your back from rounding.
When you are ready to get started, stop by The Joint Chiropractic clinic near you. Find out how simple everything can be. No appointments are needed. Flexible weekend and evening hours are available, and affordable personal healthcare plans require no insurance.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Lexington, S.C.