Is Technology Causing Your Back Problems?

By Randi Morse 

All day long we are surrounded by technology. It's at our work, it's at home, it's even all around us when we go shopping. While technology does make things a lot easier, there are some hidden dangers to using it. One such danger is back pain. If you find yourself dealing with pain between your shoulder blades, or a low back pain that just seems to never quit, it may be your technology causing the problem. 

Today's Tech 

How often do you find yourself looking at your phone? Now, I want you to think about the posture you have when you look at your phone. Most people hold their phone at the level of their chest and look down at it. This might be the easiest way to look at, and use the phone, but the unnatural tilt of your head for long periods of time can cause shoulder and back alignment problems. It's true that it's difficult to have perfect posture all the time, but you may not realize just how much damage you are doing to your body when you allow your posture to slack when using technology. 

How to Fix It 

How do you fix, or prevent, the side effects that can occur with technology usage? For starters, check the chair you're using. If you sit at a desk most of the day you will need to have a chair that provides proper lumbar support. You should also be able to put your feet firmly flat on the floor in front of you. If the chair does not have the right support, there are devices you can purchase which will modify it. Also, don't hesitate to use a footstool if your feet cannot properly touch the ground. Make sure that your computer monitor is at the right height. You should be able to look directly at your monitor without having to look down or up. 

Break Time 

When you get a few moments' break at work, you may be tempted to use that time to check your social media accounts or do some online shopping. Try to resist that urge an instead get up and move around. Stretch by rolling your shoulders and moving your neck from side to side. Take a quick little walk around the office, even a walk to the bathroom and back is better than sitting sedentary all day long. 

These are all things that you can do to help prevent the back and neck pain that technology use can cause, but if you are already dealing with that pain you should think about seeking the help of an experienced chiropractor. 

To learn more about your health, wellness and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Fitchburg, Wis.