The Chiropractic Advice Artists Should Follow

By Brandi Swieter 

Creating art takes a considerable amount of time. Artists often sit hunched over their tables creating pieces for hours upon hours at a time. This can quickly lead to back pain and discomfort. Artists should follow some chiropractic advice so they can handle their work pain-free.

Stretch Before Starting

Before beginning to paint, draw, write, or otherwise start an art project, artists should be sure to stretch. Stretching out the body will help to keep pain to a minimum since the body is flexible enough and prepared to handle the task. It’s extremely important to stretch out the arms, neck, and back, as these are the areas the most targeted when hunched over a table.

Use a Standing Desk

Sitting at a desk often leads to a hunched over posture. This can quickly allow back and neck pain to set in if people aren’t careful. A standing desk is often the best option because it makes people feel more aware of their posture. While standing, an artist is more likely to move the feet, legs, or shoulders, and is less likely to be hunched over as if sitting down. Switching positions is important, whether sitting or standing, but it will be easier while using a standing desk to take a couple steps back, roll the neck and shoulders, and reset without losing focus.

Try Self-Massage

Finger massages, wrist massages, and hand massages are the easiest to perform on oneself. After time spent writing, drawing, or otherwise using the hands repeatedly, these body parts can ache tremendously. A self-massage will go a long way in helping to alleviate the tension. Reach the shoulders and neck as well to rub these locations on the body and get relief.

Take Breaks Every 30 Minutes

It’s important to take regular breaks. This allows the artist to get up and stretch, switch positions, get some water or a bite to eat, and otherwise relax their bodies and minds and focus on something else besides the work at hand. Roughly every 30 minutes, take a break for even just a couple of minutes.

Any artists that still feel aches and pains after following this advice should visit The Joint Chiropractic. Some joint restrictions within the body could be the culprit for the pain. An assessment will need to be performed to make sure what the underlying cause is and find a method for best handling it.

To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Salem, N.H.