Is It Only A "Pain In The Neck"?
Pain in the cervical region can cause arm pain as well as the "pain in the neck." Why? In the case of the arms, it's because the nerves that branch out from the neck go all the way down into the arms and into the hands. Sometimes it's difficult to tell whether the pain is actually originating in the neck, or the arms, or both.
Symptoms in the arms include numbness, tingling, cold, aching, and "pins and needles." These symptoms can be confused with carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS), a condition found in people who work at computer keyboards or perform other repetitive motion tasks for extended periods. In CTS, the nerve sheath that runs down the center of the forearm becomes inflamed and restricts the gliding movement of the nerve. It is possible, however, for a nerve impingement to start much further "up the chain," in the neck region. It's also possible for the nerve impingement to be taking place both in the neck and in the arm.
When your neck hurts, and no major trauma is involved, rest is the first order of business. But don't stuff too many pillows under your neck- that will only make things worse. The goal is to keep your spine and neck in a neutralposition. Make sure that the "gap" between the back of your neck and the bed is filled in by a pillow (or foam support) that keeps your neck in a neutral position.
You can also apply ice or heat.
Many physical therapists prefer ice because of its effectiveness in reducing pain and inflammation. (To use ice, fill a plastic bag with crushed ice, place a towel over the affected area, then apply the ice-filled bag to the area.) Heat also provides relief to some people, but should be used with caution because it can sometimes make an inflamed area worse.
Apply heat or ice for 15-20 minutes at a time, and give yourself a 40-minute rest between applications. If you use both heat and ice, make sure to alternate between the two.
How Physical Therapy Can Help With Neck Pain and Headaches Physical therapy always begins with a detailed history and evaluation of the problem. Your physical therapist will take many things into account, including your age, general health, occupation, and lifestyle. If major trauma or disease is involved, your physical therapist will work with you in consultation with a physician.
After a diagnosis has been made, your physical therapist may choose from a range of treatment options, including exercises for flexibility, strength, stability, and restoration of range of motion. Other options include ice, heat, electrical stimulation, traction or mobilization, and massage. Your physical therapist may also analyze your home and work environment in order to ensure that you're not re-injuring yourself.
Much evidence suggests that low-impact aerobic exercise such as swimming, walking, low-impact aerobics, and stationary bicycling may also be helpful in decreasing neck pain. A physical therapist can design a pain-free exercise program just for you.
Once your physical therapy goals are met, your physical therapist will help you continue therapy on your own with a home program designed to fit your needs.
The goal of physical therapy is to return you to normal activity as quickly as possible, with the knowledge you need to minimize or eliminate your problem.
Writers Bio
Dr. Steven R. Jones is a licensed Chiropractor in the state of California. He received his doctorate from Palmer College of Chiropractic-West in Sunnyvale, California. Dr. Jones has treated his patients for over 15 years at his own San Diego Chiropractic practice.
Dr. Jones is accepting new patients and would be happy to consult with you regarding your chiropractic needs.
Call Steve Jones at
(619) 280 0554
San Diego Chiropractic
Ergonomic Office Equipment Website to learn more about or Buy Ergo Nav, the Ergonomic Mouse Pad
or Visit Ergonomic Blog, "Ergonomically Yours" And read the latest News in the Ergonomic World.
Better Health Steve Jones
Jun 18, 2010
May 18, 2010
Headache Relief Clinic Headaches Explained
Kinds Of Headaches
Most people know from experience that emotional stress can cause headaches. These "simple" headaches can be treated in a variety of ways, from taking nonprescription pain relievers to practicing meditation. Most simple headaches will go away by themselves; however, if the headache is persistent or recurring, make sure that neck strain, poor posture, or eyestrain isn't the culprit. If your headache is severe or persists for more than a few days, it is important to seek professional attention right away. Sometimes muscles in the back of the neck can irritate nerves in the head, causing a headache. If you are having headaches, a physical therapist will first make a careful evaluation of your problem (often in consultation with a physician). After pinpointing the problem, he or she will design a program of rest, exercise, stretching, and other treatments that are very effective in eliminating the cause of your headaches.
Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is inflammation of the joints caused by wear and tear. All of us experience some degree of osteoarthritis as we grow older, but the condition can also be caused by injuries. Osteoarthritis in the neck is characterized by stiffness and limited range of motion.
Physical therapy can be a great help in treating osteoarthritis. Through exercise, stretching, massage, and other therapeutic techniques, the physical therapist can gently and slowly help the patient ease the stiffness and increase range of motion.
Whiplash
Whiplash -a violent back-and-forth motion of the neck- is probably the most common traumatic injury to the neck region. It is frequently associated with automobile accidents, although it occasionally occurs in other situations (such as skiing accidents or amusement park rides). In acute cases, a device known as a cervical collar may be appropriate in order to "rest" the neck and calm the inflammation. Once the tissue has been rested, a physical therapy program designed to regain strength, function, and range of motion can begin.
Writers Bio
Dr. Steven R. Jones is a licensed Chiropractor in the state of California. He received his doctorate from Palmer College of Chiropractic-West in Sunnyvale, California. Dr. Jones has treated his patients for over 15 years at his own San Diego Chiropractic practice.
Dr. Jones is accepting new patients and would be happy to consult with you regarding your chiropractic needs.
Call Steve Jones at
(619) 280 0554
San Diego Chiropractic
Ergonomic Office Equipment Website to learn more about or Buy Ergo Nav, the Ergonomic Mouse Pad
or Visit Ergonomic Blog, "Ergonomically Yours" And read the latest News in the Ergonomic World.
Better Health Steve Jones
Most people know from experience that emotional stress can cause headaches. These "simple" headaches can be treated in a variety of ways, from taking nonprescription pain relievers to practicing meditation. Most simple headaches will go away by themselves; however, if the headache is persistent or recurring, make sure that neck strain, poor posture, or eyestrain isn't the culprit. If your headache is severe or persists for more than a few days, it is important to seek professional attention right away. Sometimes muscles in the back of the neck can irritate nerves in the head, causing a headache. If you are having headaches, a physical therapist will first make a careful evaluation of your problem (often in consultation with a physician). After pinpointing the problem, he or she will design a program of rest, exercise, stretching, and other treatments that are very effective in eliminating the cause of your headaches.
Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is inflammation of the joints caused by wear and tear. All of us experience some degree of osteoarthritis as we grow older, but the condition can also be caused by injuries. Osteoarthritis in the neck is characterized by stiffness and limited range of motion.
Physical therapy can be a great help in treating osteoarthritis. Through exercise, stretching, massage, and other therapeutic techniques, the physical therapist can gently and slowly help the patient ease the stiffness and increase range of motion.
Whiplash
Whiplash -a violent back-and-forth motion of the neck- is probably the most common traumatic injury to the neck region. It is frequently associated with automobile accidents, although it occasionally occurs in other situations (such as skiing accidents or amusement park rides). In acute cases, a device known as a cervical collar may be appropriate in order to "rest" the neck and calm the inflammation. Once the tissue has been rested, a physical therapy program designed to regain strength, function, and range of motion can begin.
Writers Bio
Dr. Steven R. Jones is a licensed Chiropractor in the state of California. He received his doctorate from Palmer College of Chiropractic-West in Sunnyvale, California. Dr. Jones has treated his patients for over 15 years at his own San Diego Chiropractic practice.
Dr. Jones is accepting new patients and would be happy to consult with you regarding your chiropractic needs.
Call Steve Jones at
(619) 280 0554
San Diego Chiropractic
Ergonomic Office Equipment Website to learn more about or Buy Ergo Nav, the Ergonomic Mouse Pad
or Visit Ergonomic Blog, "Ergonomically Yours" And read the latest News in the Ergonomic World.
Better Health Steve Jones
Apr 18, 2010
Avoiding Neck Stress Neck Pain
Avoiding Neck Stress
Other bad habits to avoid include:
• "Shopper's tilt"-carrying items on one shoulder for a long period; and
• Carrying items that are too heavy.
"Shopper's tilt" can be avoided by using a back pack-style bag to more evenly distribute the weight you're carrying. (Be sure to wear the back pack correctly, with both arms through the shoulder loops, or the benefit will be lost.) A variation on "shopper's tilt"-"traveler's droop"- is a familiar experience to anyone who has ever tried to lug a heavy suitcase across an
airline terminal.
Again, a back pack can be helpful, or consider purchasing a compact "rolling suitcase" with wheels and a retractable handle. Believe it or not, simply talking on the phone can create neck problems. Some people are in the habit of cradling the telephone receiver between the shoulder
and the neck. Not only does this put stress on the neck, but over a long period it can cause the cervical discs to place pressure on the nerves. If you spend a great deal of time on the phone, you might try one of the products designed to make it a more comfortable experience-neck cradles, speaker phones, or a "hands-free" headset.
The TMJ- temporomandibular joint- is the joint at which the jaw is hinged to the skull. Painful TMJ problems occur in people who overuse or abuse this joint through teeth grinding, constant clenching and unclenching of the jaw, or excessive gum chewing. Sometimes people are born with a misalignment of the jaw that can bring on similar symptoms.
Because the neck and the TMJ are so closely connected, the TMJ can cause neck pain-and vice versa. In some cases a dentist may need to create an oral retainer to allow the joint to rest and let healing begin. After that, a physical therapist can help minimize the pain in the jaw or neck through a custom-designed exercise program.
True migraine headaches are most likely the result of problems affecting the blood vessels in the head, or of an allergic reaction. However, many other types of headaches can mimic migraines and are often misdiagnosed. Some of these originate in the neck or jaw, such as the TMJ disorders mentioned above.
If you don't have all the symptoms of migraines- nausea, problems with vision, and pain-get a second opinion, particularly if the pain is triggered by motion of the neck. If you don't have a true migraine, a physical therapist can help diagnose the actual source of the pain. Once an evaluation is made, your physical therapist will help you create a comfortable and appropriate home and work environment and will design a program of rest (if needed) and exercise. If the source of your headache is in the TMJ (jaw) area, your physical therapist may consult with your dentist who may create a special oral retainer in order to discourage "bad habits" such as teeth grinding.
Writers Bio
Dr. Steven R. Jones is a licensed Chiropractor in the state of California. He received his doctorate from Palmer College of Chiropractic-West in Sunnyvale, California. Dr. Jones has treated his patients for over 15 years at his own San Diego Chiropractic practice.
Dr. Jones is accepting new patients and would be happy to consult with you regarding your chiropractic needs.
Call Steve Jones at
(619) 280 0554
San Diego Chiropractic
Ergonomic Office Equipment Website to learn more about or Buy Ergo Nav, the Ergonomic Mouse Pad
or Visit Ergonomic Blog, "Ergonomically Yours" And read the latest News in the Ergonomic World.
Better Health Steve Jones
Other bad habits to avoid include:
• "Shopper's tilt"-carrying items on one shoulder for a long period; and
• Carrying items that are too heavy.
"Shopper's tilt" can be avoided by using a back pack-style bag to more evenly distribute the weight you're carrying. (Be sure to wear the back pack correctly, with both arms through the shoulder loops, or the benefit will be lost.) A variation on "shopper's tilt"-"traveler's droop"- is a familiar experience to anyone who has ever tried to lug a heavy suitcase across an
airline terminal.
Again, a back pack can be helpful, or consider purchasing a compact "rolling suitcase" with wheels and a retractable handle. Believe it or not, simply talking on the phone can create neck problems. Some people are in the habit of cradling the telephone receiver between the shoulder
and the neck. Not only does this put stress on the neck, but over a long period it can cause the cervical discs to place pressure on the nerves. If you spend a great deal of time on the phone, you might try one of the products designed to make it a more comfortable experience-neck cradles, speaker phones, or a "hands-free" headset.
The TMJ- temporomandibular joint- is the joint at which the jaw is hinged to the skull. Painful TMJ problems occur in people who overuse or abuse this joint through teeth grinding, constant clenching and unclenching of the jaw, or excessive gum chewing. Sometimes people are born with a misalignment of the jaw that can bring on similar symptoms.
Because the neck and the TMJ are so closely connected, the TMJ can cause neck pain-and vice versa. In some cases a dentist may need to create an oral retainer to allow the joint to rest and let healing begin. After that, a physical therapist can help minimize the pain in the jaw or neck through a custom-designed exercise program.
True migraine headaches are most likely the result of problems affecting the blood vessels in the head, or of an allergic reaction. However, many other types of headaches can mimic migraines and are often misdiagnosed. Some of these originate in the neck or jaw, such as the TMJ disorders mentioned above.
If you don't have all the symptoms of migraines- nausea, problems with vision, and pain-get a second opinion, particularly if the pain is triggered by motion of the neck. If you don't have a true migraine, a physical therapist can help diagnose the actual source of the pain. Once an evaluation is made, your physical therapist will help you create a comfortable and appropriate home and work environment and will design a program of rest (if needed) and exercise. If the source of your headache is in the TMJ (jaw) area, your physical therapist may consult with your dentist who may create a special oral retainer in order to discourage "bad habits" such as teeth grinding.
Writers Bio
Dr. Steven R. Jones is a licensed Chiropractor in the state of California. He received his doctorate from Palmer College of Chiropractic-West in Sunnyvale, California. Dr. Jones has treated his patients for over 15 years at his own San Diego Chiropractic practice.
Dr. Jones is accepting new patients and would be happy to consult with you regarding your chiropractic needs.
Call Steve Jones at
(619) 280 0554
San Diego Chiropractic
Ergonomic Office Equipment Website to learn more about or Buy Ergo Nav, the Ergonomic Mouse Pad
or Visit Ergonomic Blog, "Ergonomically Yours" And read the latest News in the Ergonomic World.
Better Health Steve Jones
Mar 18, 2010
Other Kinds Of Headaches
Other Kinds Of Headaches
Most people know from experience that emotional stress can cause headaches. These "simple" headaches can be treated in a variety of ways, from taking nonprescription pain relievers to practicing meditation. Most simple headaches will go away by themselves; however, if the headache is persistent or recurring, make sure that neck strain, poor posture, or eyestrain isn't the culprit.
If your headache is severe or persists for more than a few days, it is important to seek professional attention right away. Sometimes muscles in the back of the neck can irritate nerves in the head, causing a headache. If you are having headaches, a physical therapist will first make a careful evaluation of your problem (often in consultation with a physician). After pinpointing the problem, he or she will design a program of rest, exercise, stretching, and other treatments that are very effective in eliminating the cause of your headaches.
Writers Bio
Dr. Steven R. Jones is a licensed Chiropractor in the state of California. He received his doctorate from Palmer College of Chiropractic-West in Sunnyvale, California. Dr. Jones has treated his patients for over 15 years at his own San Diego Chiropractic practice.
Dr. Jones is accepting new patients and would be happy to consult with you regarding your chiropractic needs.
Call Steve Jones at
(619) 280 0554
San Diego Chiropractic
Ergonomic Office Equipment Website to learn more about or Buy Ergo Nav, the Ergonomic Mouse Pad
or Visit Ergonomic Blog, "Ergonomically Yours" And read the latest News in the Ergonomic World.
Better Health Steve Jones
Most people know from experience that emotional stress can cause headaches. These "simple" headaches can be treated in a variety of ways, from taking nonprescription pain relievers to practicing meditation. Most simple headaches will go away by themselves; however, if the headache is persistent or recurring, make sure that neck strain, poor posture, or eyestrain isn't the culprit.
If your headache is severe or persists for more than a few days, it is important to seek professional attention right away. Sometimes muscles in the back of the neck can irritate nerves in the head, causing a headache. If you are having headaches, a physical therapist will first make a careful evaluation of your problem (often in consultation with a physician). After pinpointing the problem, he or she will design a program of rest, exercise, stretching, and other treatments that are very effective in eliminating the cause of your headaches.
Writers Bio
Dr. Steven R. Jones is a licensed Chiropractor in the state of California. He received his doctorate from Palmer College of Chiropractic-West in Sunnyvale, California. Dr. Jones has treated his patients for over 15 years at his own San Diego Chiropractic practice.
Dr. Jones is accepting new patients and would be happy to consult with you regarding your chiropractic needs.
Call Steve Jones at
(619) 280 0554
San Diego Chiropractic
Ergonomic Office Equipment Website to learn more about or Buy Ergo Nav, the Ergonomic Mouse Pad
or Visit Ergonomic Blog, "Ergonomically Yours" And read the latest News in the Ergonomic World.
Better Health Steve Jones
Feb 18, 2010
Sleeping Position and Neck Problems
Your sleeping position is another possible source of neck problems. Does your pillow cause you to sleep with your neck at an angle, either too high or too low? If so, you may want to invest in a new pillow. Feather pillows are generally preferable to foam; they conform easily to the shape of the neck.
Also, remember that pillows don't last forever. After a year or so feather pillows tend to "collapse" and may need to be replaced. In addition, a bed that doesn't offer enough back support can also be a source of neck discomfort.
Here are some other tips to help you avoid neck strain and pain:
• Try doing stretching exercises before bed and first thing in the morning;
• Don't sleep on your stomach-this position puts great pressure on the neck; and
• Don't "over-pillow" your neck; keep your neck and spine in a neutral position.
The neutral position rule also holds true for people who spend time working at computer terminals. Again, don't bend your neck forward. Adjust your desk, monitor, and chair to a comfortable height, so that the monitor is at eye level and your knees are slightly lower than your hips. Some people find that a footstool helps in attaining this correct position. Sit close enough to the monitor so that you don't have to bend forward in order to see well. Use the chair's armrests-your arms need support. Wear your eyeglasses if necessary. Consult your physical therapist to find the set-up that is right for you.
You should also follow the neutral position rule when driving a car. Adjust the seat to bring you close enough to the pedals so that you don't have to extend your neck forward.
Proper Lifting Technique
Another cause of neck pain is poor lifting technique. People often think of the lower back as the area at risk, but the cervical region is nearly as vulnerable. Here is the correct way to lift:
• Stand up straight, close to the object;
• Bend at your hips and knees, keeping your back in the neutral position and your head and shoulders up;
• Firmly grasp the object and rise up with your hip and leg muscles;
• Keep the object close to your body. Your hips and legs absorb most of the weight, and you will put less strain on your back and neck.
• The feet should be positioned shoulder-width apart, with one foot slightly ahead of the other.
In addition, you may find that placing one foot forward and one foot back may be easier than trying to lift an object from the "squatting" position.
Writers Bio
Dr. Steven R. Jones is a licensed Chiropractor in the state of California. He received his doctorate from Palmer College of Chiropractic-West in Sunnyvale, California. Dr. Jones has treated his patients for over 15 years at his own San Diego Chiropractic practice.
Dr. Jones is accepting new patients and would be happy to consult with you regarding your chiropractic needs.
Call Steve Jones at
(619) 280 0554
San Diego Chiropractic
Ergonomic Office Equipment Website to learn more about or Buy Ergo Nav, the Ergonomic Mouse Pad
or Visit Ergonomic Blog, "Ergonomically Yours" And read the latest News in the Ergonomic World.
Better Health Steve Jones
Also, remember that pillows don't last forever. After a year or so feather pillows tend to "collapse" and may need to be replaced. In addition, a bed that doesn't offer enough back support can also be a source of neck discomfort.
Here are some other tips to help you avoid neck strain and pain:
• Try doing stretching exercises before bed and first thing in the morning;
• Don't sleep on your stomach-this position puts great pressure on the neck; and
• Don't "over-pillow" your neck; keep your neck and spine in a neutral position.
The neutral position rule also holds true for people who spend time working at computer terminals. Again, don't bend your neck forward. Adjust your desk, monitor, and chair to a comfortable height, so that the monitor is at eye level and your knees are slightly lower than your hips. Some people find that a footstool helps in attaining this correct position. Sit close enough to the monitor so that you don't have to bend forward in order to see well. Use the chair's armrests-your arms need support. Wear your eyeglasses if necessary. Consult your physical therapist to find the set-up that is right for you.
You should also follow the neutral position rule when driving a car. Adjust the seat to bring you close enough to the pedals so that you don't have to extend your neck forward.
Proper Lifting Technique
Another cause of neck pain is poor lifting technique. People often think of the lower back as the area at risk, but the cervical region is nearly as vulnerable. Here is the correct way to lift:
• Stand up straight, close to the object;
• Bend at your hips and knees, keeping your back in the neutral position and your head and shoulders up;
• Firmly grasp the object and rise up with your hip and leg muscles;
• Keep the object close to your body. Your hips and legs absorb most of the weight, and you will put less strain on your back and neck.
• The feet should be positioned shoulder-width apart, with one foot slightly ahead of the other.
In addition, you may find that placing one foot forward and one foot back may be easier than trying to lift an object from the "squatting" position.
Writers Bio
Dr. Steven R. Jones is a licensed Chiropractor in the state of California. He received his doctorate from Palmer College of Chiropractic-West in Sunnyvale, California. Dr. Jones has treated his patients for over 15 years at his own San Diego Chiropractic practice.
Dr. Jones is accepting new patients and would be happy to consult with you regarding your chiropractic needs.
Call Steve Jones at
(619) 280 0554
San Diego Chiropractic
Ergonomic Office Equipment Website to learn more about or Buy Ergo Nav, the Ergonomic Mouse Pad
or Visit Ergonomic Blog, "Ergonomically Yours" And read the latest News in the Ergonomic World.
Better Health Steve Jones
Jan 18, 2010
Anatomy Of The Neck Region
Anatomy Of The Neck Region
One of the most flexible regions of the spine is the neck (cervical) region, which consists of vertebrae, seven shock-absorbing discs, muscles, and vertebral ligaments to hold them in place. The uppermost cervical disc connects the top of the spinal column to the base of the skull. The spinal cord, which sends nerve impulses to every part of the body, runs through a canal in the the cervical vertebrae and continues all the way down the spine. The cervical nerves spread down into the arms; because of this, arm pain is sometimes traceable to a problem in the neck.
One of the most common causes of neck pain, and sometimes headaches, is poor posture. It's easy to get into bad posture habits without even realizing it-even an activity as "innocent" as reading in bed can ultimately lead to pain, headaches, and more serious problems.
The basic rule is simple: keep your neck in a "neutral" position whenever possible. In other words, don't bend or hunch your neck forward for long periods. Also, try not to sit in one position for a long time. If you must sit for an extended period, make sure your posture is good: Keep your head in a neutral position, make sure your back is supported, keep your knees slightly lower than your hips, and rest your arms if possible.
Reading in bed can cause neck strain- especially if you're propped up on several pillows, bending your neck forward, and trying to hold your arms out in order to support the book. If you do read in bed, make it easy on your neck: Consider purchasing one of the products specifically designed for this purpose, such as a wedge pillow to prop up the book or a portable "mini desk." Finally, remember not to stay in any single position too long- our bodies are designed to move.
Writers Bio
Dr. Steven R. Jones is a licensed Chiropractor in the state of California. He received his doctorate from Palmer College of Chiropractic-West in Sunnyvale, California. Dr. Jones has treated his patients for over 15 years at his own San Diego Chiropractic practice.
Dr. Jones is accepting new patients and would be happy to consult with you regarding your chiropractic needs.
Call Steve Jones at
(619) 280 0554
San Diego Chiropractic
Ergonomic Office Equipment Website to learn more about or Buy Ergo Nav, the Ergonomic Mouse Pad
or Visit Ergonomic Blog, "Ergonomically Yours" And read the latest News in the Ergonomic World.
Better Health Steve Jones
One of the most flexible regions of the spine is the neck (cervical) region, which consists of vertebrae, seven shock-absorbing discs, muscles, and vertebral ligaments to hold them in place. The uppermost cervical disc connects the top of the spinal column to the base of the skull. The spinal cord, which sends nerve impulses to every part of the body, runs through a canal in the the cervical vertebrae and continues all the way down the spine. The cervical nerves spread down into the arms; because of this, arm pain is sometimes traceable to a problem in the neck.
One of the most common causes of neck pain, and sometimes headaches, is poor posture. It's easy to get into bad posture habits without even realizing it-even an activity as "innocent" as reading in bed can ultimately lead to pain, headaches, and more serious problems.
The basic rule is simple: keep your neck in a "neutral" position whenever possible. In other words, don't bend or hunch your neck forward for long periods. Also, try not to sit in one position for a long time. If you must sit for an extended period, make sure your posture is good: Keep your head in a neutral position, make sure your back is supported, keep your knees slightly lower than your hips, and rest your arms if possible.
Reading in bed can cause neck strain- especially if you're propped up on several pillows, bending your neck forward, and trying to hold your arms out in order to support the book. If you do read in bed, make it easy on your neck: Consider purchasing one of the products specifically designed for this purpose, such as a wedge pillow to prop up the book or a portable "mini desk." Finally, remember not to stay in any single position too long- our bodies are designed to move.
Writers Bio
Dr. Steven R. Jones is a licensed Chiropractor in the state of California. He received his doctorate from Palmer College of Chiropractic-West in Sunnyvale, California. Dr. Jones has treated his patients for over 15 years at his own San Diego Chiropractic practice.
Dr. Jones is accepting new patients and would be happy to consult with you regarding your chiropractic needs.
Call Steve Jones at
(619) 280 0554
San Diego Chiropractic
Ergonomic Office Equipment Website to learn more about or Buy Ergo Nav, the Ergonomic Mouse Pad
or Visit Ergonomic Blog, "Ergonomically Yours" And read the latest News in the Ergonomic World.
Better Health Steve Jones
Jan 9, 2010
Sitting, Reaching and Posture
Sitting, Reaching and Posture
Sitting and reaching have a profound impact on your posture. Both sitting and reaching stress the spine. Reaching stresses both the spine, shoulder, elbow and wrist. Sitting and reaching contribute to poor posture that can cause neck pain, shoulder pain, back pain and wrist pain.
Sitting has a negative impact on your back for several reasons. Since our spines were made to move, it should come as no surprise that hours on end of sitting in a static position leads to injury.
In addition to a lack of movement, the sitting posture itself is structurally stressful to the spine. When we are standing upright, the lower back should have a sweeping forward curve which promotes stability by reducing pressure on the discs that separate our vertebra. Sitting reverses the normal curve in our lower backs and increases the pressure on the discs leading to an increased chance of injury.
From a postural standpoint, the sitting position can promote rounded shoulders, slumping forward of the upper back and jutting forward of the jaw. Not only are these postures unattractive but they contribute to the development of tendonitis and result in stretch weakness of the involved muscles.
There are volumes of information regarding ideal sitting postures both on the web and within other posts on this site. Sorting out your posture with the use of a good ergonomic chair will help you maintain good posture and spinal health.
Reaching at or beyond your normal arc of motion also contributes to poor posture and cumulative trauma type injuries, especially of the neck and shoulder. It is vitally important to the health of your frame to keep objects that you use on a regular basis within easy reach. Your phone, the mouse, stapler, etc., if used frequently through the course of your day, should be within your immediate reach. Objects that are used less frequently can be kept farther away, closer to the edge of your comfortable reach.
Take a good look at your work space. Making a few simple changes will help save your posture and your spinal health.
Writers Bio
Dr. Steven R. Jones is a licensed Chiropractor in the state of California. He received his doctorate from Palmer College of Chiropractic-West in Sunnyvale, California. Dr. Jones has treated his patients for over 15 years at his own San Diego Chiropractic practice.
Dr. Jones is accepting new patients and would be happy to consult with you regarding your chiropractic needs.
Call Steve Jones at
(619) 280 0554
San Diego Chiropractic
Ergonomic Office Equipment Website to learn more about or Buy Ergo Nav, the Ergonomic Mouse Pad
or Visit Ergonomic Blog, "Ergonomically Yours" And read the latest News in the Ergonomic World.
Better Health Steve Jones
Sitting and reaching have a profound impact on your posture. Both sitting and reaching stress the spine. Reaching stresses both the spine, shoulder, elbow and wrist. Sitting and reaching contribute to poor posture that can cause neck pain, shoulder pain, back pain and wrist pain.
Sitting has a negative impact on your back for several reasons. Since our spines were made to move, it should come as no surprise that hours on end of sitting in a static position leads to injury.
In addition to a lack of movement, the sitting posture itself is structurally stressful to the spine. When we are standing upright, the lower back should have a sweeping forward curve which promotes stability by reducing pressure on the discs that separate our vertebra. Sitting reverses the normal curve in our lower backs and increases the pressure on the discs leading to an increased chance of injury.
From a postural standpoint, the sitting position can promote rounded shoulders, slumping forward of the upper back and jutting forward of the jaw. Not only are these postures unattractive but they contribute to the development of tendonitis and result in stretch weakness of the involved muscles.
There are volumes of information regarding ideal sitting postures both on the web and within other posts on this site. Sorting out your posture with the use of a good ergonomic chair will help you maintain good posture and spinal health.
Reaching at or beyond your normal arc of motion also contributes to poor posture and cumulative trauma type injuries, especially of the neck and shoulder. It is vitally important to the health of your frame to keep objects that you use on a regular basis within easy reach. Your phone, the mouse, stapler, etc., if used frequently through the course of your day, should be within your immediate reach. Objects that are used less frequently can be kept farther away, closer to the edge of your comfortable reach.
Take a good look at your work space. Making a few simple changes will help save your posture and your spinal health.
Writers Bio
Dr. Steven R. Jones is a licensed Chiropractor in the state of California. He received his doctorate from Palmer College of Chiropractic-West in Sunnyvale, California. Dr. Jones has treated his patients for over 15 years at his own San Diego Chiropractic practice.
Dr. Jones is accepting new patients and would be happy to consult with you regarding your chiropractic needs.
Call Steve Jones at
(619) 280 0554
San Diego Chiropractic
Ergonomic Office Equipment Website to learn more about or Buy Ergo Nav, the Ergonomic Mouse Pad
or Visit Ergonomic Blog, "Ergonomically Yours" And read the latest News in the Ergonomic World.
Better Health Steve Jones
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