Chiropractic Tips for Computer-Related Injuries
By Sara Butler
If you spend your time sitting in front of a computer for hours per day, then chances are you're well acquainted with the aches and pains that accompany it. Identifying a way to deal with all those aches and pains can be a struggle but finding ways to improve your posture and your spinal health are crucial. The chiropractors at The Joint Chiropractic know how difficult it can be to change your habits, but it's important to learn a few chiropractic tips and trips to help alleviate injuries that can occur from so much time spent at the computer.
How to Handle Aches
If you suffer from neck aches and headaches as the result of computer work, then you may be experiencing a problem called "tech neck." This is a condition that many people suffer from as a result of holding their head in a forward head position for long periods of time. It's important to be mindful of how you hold your head, neck, and shoulders as you use your computer.
There are a few things you can do to help reduce headaches and neck aches. A few simple exercises can help to stretch the muscles. You should:
- Rotate your shoulders back and shrug your shoulders
- Move your head from side to side, touching your ear to your shoulder
- Lengthening your neck by lowering and raising your chin a nodding motion
- Roll your head, alternating counterclockwise and clockwise
It's also important to take at least one small break each hour when working at the computer. Try these exercises when you take your break!
Proper Support
The type of seat you have makes a big difference in your health, too. Invest in an ergonomic chair that can help to keep you from sitting hunched over at your computer and help you maintain proper posture. The chair should support your arms and your lower back while also allowing you to keep both of your feet flat on the floor and your wrists at a 90-degree angle when typing.
Leg Pain
If you begin to notice issues with your legs aching and becoming restless after you've been sitting, then get up and move around. Your body is not designed to sit still, which is why one of the best things you can do to combat computer-related injuries is to move at regular intervals. This will help to increase blood flow and help to relieve any tingling or tightness. Add in some stretches and lunges too.
Your body wasn't made to sit in front of a computer all day, so make sure to let the chiropractors at The Joint Chiropractic help you to stay healthy by assisting you in creating good habits.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Magnolia, Tex.