Do You Have PC Posture?

When computers first arrived (IBM introduced the home computer in 1981), they were supposed to allow us to have more leisure time –let’s all laugh at the same time. HA HA!

With the advent of computer technology and the increased expectation in productivity, there were more health-related problems associated with the computer than with any other “breakthrough.”

We have become dependent on computers (including tablets, and smart phones but these are for another day) in our lives. If we cannot change them (PC) then we must adapt our body for the increasing demands that we put upon it.

Here are a few areas of pain/injury that you may have experienced:
• Neck pain
• Neck and Shoulder tension
• Carpal tunnel syndrome
• Blackberry thumbs, aka Crackberry thumbs
• Eyestrain
• Headaches and Migraines
• Rounded or stooped shoulders
• Low back pain

NOW FOR SOME RELIEF AND SUGGESTIONS:
Heat is very effective on your shoulders especially when combined with neck rolls.
-try gentle stretches in the shower to alleviate neck fatigue.

Roll your neck from one side to the other, without doing a full rotation. It’s best done slowly to prevent being lightheaded.

Sit in a chair in an upright position with your ankles, knees, hips and arms bent in a 90-degree angle. This position allows you to maintain maximum effort with minimum fatigue.

Try sitting on a stability ball. This will prevent you from slouching forward, otherwise you’ll hit the floor and your ego won’t be only thing that will be bruised.
-try strengthening exercises to help stabilize your core. (ie. Pilates)

Make sure your gaze is at eye-level on the centre of the screen.

Drink plenty of fluids (a glass of water per hour), to help prevent dehydration and headache symptoms. Work in a humidity-controlled environment.

Move from your desk every hour to help prevent low back pain and discomfort. It’s also an opportunity to get up and stretch your legs.

Stretch your hands, extend your fingers, and do range of motion exercises on your wrists to prevent Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.

In conclusion: be aware of your body, notice the signs of fatigue, and let’s help prevent injury.

See your doctor if the pain persists or doesn’t go away within a day or two.
See your therapist if treatment is recommended.