How to Prevent Computer-Related Injuries
By Sara Butler
How is your workspace arranged? By the middle of the day, are your shoulders or lower back aching? Well, if you answered yes then you may need to make a few changes to help reduce your risk of computer-related injury. That’s right – use of your computer day in and day out can lead to repetitive injuries that can cause a lot of pain and discomfort. Here are a few of the ways you can help to avoid these injuries with the help of your chiropractor!
The Most Common Injuries
If you’re sitting in a posture all day that isn’t healthy, then your body will pay the price. The most common injuries sustained from poor computer posture include:
- Mouse shoulder
- Computer back
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Lumbar strains and sprains
- Disc injuries
- Tennis elbow
You need the help of your chiropractor in order to accurately diagnose a computer-related injury. If you feel pain or discomfort when you’re working at your desk, then make sure you talk to your chiropractor about it.
A Few Steps for Prevention
The best way to prevent computer-related injuries is to first identify the stress you’re placing on your body when sitting at your computer and taking steps to correct anything you’re doing wrong. You can do this by:
- Arranging your desk to promote good posture – You need to make sure your desk is set up in a way that doesn’t require you to reach out uncomfortably for the things you need most. Your computer screen should be at eye level and your keyboard shouldn’t require you to reach too far with your hands to type. Check yourself throughout the day to make sure you’re sitting in a healthy posture.
- Add support – There are a few areas of your body that may need extra support in order to maintain a healthy posture. You may need to support your lower back and your wrists in front of your keyboard
- Get up often – Don’t sit for more than an hour without getting up from your desk, walking around, and stretching a bit. This will help you to maintain a healthy posture throughout the day.
- Exercise – When you’re not at work, make sure you’re getting at least a level of moderate exercise. This helps to keep your muscles strong and supportive and also helps you to stay flexible.
- See your chiropractor – Regular adjustments are recommended to resolve any joint restrictions or dysfunctions you may be experiencing.
To learn more about your health and wellness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic.