Who doesn't love the reduced commute time and relaxed dress code that comes with working from home? Unfortunately, these perks aren't the only thing that can accompany a home office. Neck pain can become an unwelcome co-worker.
Dr. Jocelyn Idema and our skilled team at Steel City Spine and Orthopedic Center provide state-of-the-art treatment for your spine and orthopedic needs at three locations in Pennsylvania and now our extension in South Florida.
We personally engage with our patients to create a customized treatment plan for neck pain and other issues, focusing on nonsurgical solutions whenever possible.
We ask a lot of our necks. The average human head weighs 10-12 pounds when held upright in a neutral position. However, the weight increases significantly when we bend forward, which can strain the neck muscles.
Symptoms frequently include pain that worsens when you hold the head in one position, for example, while working on the computer. Muscle tightness, spasms, and headaches can also occur, and you could experience difficulty moving your head.
One big cause of work-related neck problems is tech neck. This condition can result from spending too much time in an awkward position working on your computer or tablet or looking down at your phone.
Tech neck overworks the neck muscles, and they become tired and sore. It strains the neck joints and spinal discs. If a pinched nerve develops, it can result in numbness, tingling, or weakness in the arms.
Fortunately, there are steps you can take to keep your neck pain-free.
Don’t hunch over to look at your computer or strain your neck to look up at the monitor. Aim to sit upright with feet flat on the floor and knees and elbows bent at 90-degree angles so both thighs and forearms are parallel with the floor.
If you use a laptop, consider investing in a stand to raise the screen to eye level.
A standing desk adjusts to various heights, allowing you to alternate between sitting and standing. An ideal office chair has the ability to adjust height.
Not moving or changing your position enough can cause issues. Get up and walk around every 15-30 minutes to get your blood circulating. Even just a minute or two can make a difference.
Make sure you can view your computer monitor clearly and aren’t leaning forward in an attempt to read the screen. Enlarge the text if necessary. In addition, consider a visit to the eye doctor if you struggle with your vision and it's been a while since your last exam.
If you experience more than a brief episode of neck pain, see us at Steel City Spine and Orthopedic Center. Getting a proper diagnosis and treatment plan is crucial for the fastest and easiest recovery.
If you're suffering from neck pain due to your work situation, an injury, or an unknown cause, we can help. Click our request button or call the office in Washington, Pittsburgh, or McKees Rocks, Pennsylvania, to make an appointment.
