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Sitting at the computer: it’s become a way of life for thousands of office-working Americans. While computer technology may indeed be the path to increased efficiency and progress for today’s businesses, computer workstations themselves have brought about a new onslaught of neck, shoulder and back ailments that continue to plague those who operate them on a daily basis.
“People are simply spending too much time sitting,” said Bobbi Ornstein, Physical Therapist at MKMG. “The way they sit, compounded by repetitive movements and body positions, are creating all kinds of aches and pains that become chronic if these patterns are not broken.”
Common complaints resulting from office work include everything from general aches to muscle spasms in the neck, upper/lower back and shoulders, as well as the wrists and hips. More serious warning signs, such as tingling or numbness, indicate a more chronic problem that may have begun as an ache or pain, but was ignored. When no injuries or accidents have occurred, Ms. Ornstein said, the culprit is usually job-related.
“The problem is usually first experienced as an ache or pain that persists longer than a few days, with no apparent cause,” Ms. Ornstein said. “Sometimes it manifests itself as general discomfort or stiffness in the joints. Many people notice it more intensely at bedtime, when they are more relaxed and aware of their bodies.”
Ergonomics & Body Position
Pain can often be caused simply by maintaining constant, poor body positions. Examples include: cradling a telephone in the crook of the neck while typing, constantly turning the head right or left
to look at a computer monitor, or simply sitting for too long.
Ergonomics helps keep our bodies in the optimal anatomical position. Ergonomically designed chairs, pillows, and desk accessories, such as wrist pads and computer mice, can help correct poor body positioning.
However, Ms. Ornstein said, the real solution is to give the body frequent periods of rest and stretches to break the daily patterns of abuse to muscles and joints.
Take a REAL Break from Repetitive Motion Syndrome
Constantly sitting in the same positions and making similar movements (such as computer keystrokes or mouse maneuvers), all qualify as repetitive motions.
Those whose occupations demand a significant amount of desk and/or computer work can prevent or alleviate the effects of long-term muscle and joint problems by taking frequent breaks and forcing the body to move throughout the day.
“Simply getting up to use the restroom is not enough -- people need to get into the habit of really moving their bodies on a regular basis, to keep their muscles healthy,” said Ms. Ornstein. “As a rule, office workers need to get up, walk around, and stretch their muscles for three to five minutes every 45 minutes.
“While this may seem like a lot of time, it really is necessary. Even if you start out little by little, you can work it into your daily routine in no time.“
For more information, contact MKMG’s Center for Physical Therapy & Sports Rehabilitation at: 242-1563. | 
