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I work sitting at a desk. Why am I experiencing pain in the neck, shoulders, or arms?
Modern conveniences such as TVs, Computers, and Cell Phones have enabled us to be more efficient at the expense of our need to move. As an example, in the past, we needed to move our bodies more to complete basic everyday tasks. Many may remember the need to rise from the couch to change the channel on the TV. Along came the remote control which allowed us to change channels at the push of a button. We no longer need to get our entire body up from the couch but rather just use our arms, hand, and fingers. Now with the invention of voice commands, we can just speak, and our TV will easily change channels, without our bodies having to move at all.
While our society experiences increased convenience in daily tasks and activities, what we don’t often realize is the detrimental toll that moving less takes on our bodies. When a desk worker spends many hours of the day sitting while using devices such as cell phones and computers, there is a propensity to develop rounded shoulders and a forward head posture. Hours of isometric muscle contraction to maintain the body’s position leads muscles to tighten and shorten, which may affect the front/back curvature of our neck. Muscles that work hard to hold up our head may fatigue and develop tight bands or trigger points which in turn may become painful. Imbalances may lead to abnormal compression of the vertebrae, strained joints, ligaments, and tendons, and even nerve compression along with abnormal mechanics of the neck, shoulders, and arms.1 Eventually the faulty posture, muscle fatigue from supporting the weight of the head, and resulting micro-trauma may lead to symptoms including muscle tension in the neck and shoulders, pain in the neck, upper or mid back pain, chest discomfort, and possibly tingling and numbness in the arms and hands.
If you are wondering whether sitting for many hours per day or your posture is contributing to your pain in the neck, shoulder, or arm you may benefit from a consultation with a Physical Therapist to perform an examination to identify the specific impairments you are experiencing and develop a strategy to address them. Through a combination of orthopedic manual therapy techniques including a myofascial release for soft tissue and joint restrictions, exercises to strengthen the weakened muscles, and education for sitting and standing with a more neutral posture, you have the possibility to address your neck, shoulder, and arm pain without medication or surgery.
Here at Spruce Health Group we offer Orthopedic Physical Therapy as well as a suite of other services that may benefit your health. Call us with any questions 720-678-98673.
As you get older, health screenings and checkups become a more vital part of your overall well-being. Knowing which screenings to get after 50, and how often, will support early detection and effective treatment, while also helping you stay proactive about your health. To make being proactive even easier, weve created a handy preventive care guide filled with quick health tips and the information you need to stay on top of your health screenings. Click below to download your free health screening guide today -https://transformingage.org/mastering-your-health-after-50/- Call us today to learn more 720-505-5133.
Supporting independence is one of the best things we can do for the older adults in our lives. The summer months, filled with events and activities, offer great opportunities to revisit how were helping seniors stay empowered, without compromising safety.What Independence Really Looks LikeIt doesnt mean doing everything alone it means having the freedom to make choices, engage in meaningful routines, and feel in control. From choosing what to eat to deciding when to go for a walk, independence is deeply tied to dignity and mental wellness.Tools That Support Senior IndependencePersonal Emergency Response Systems (PERS): Allow seniors to summon help at the touch of a buttonMedication Dispensers: Help track daily doses and prevent missed or doubled medsVoice-Controlled Smart Devices: Can assist with reminders, music, and communicationTransportation Services: Ride-share apps or senior transit services can make errands and outings easierProfessional Services Can Help, TooIn-home care aides can support with personal care or light housekeepingMeal delivery services ensure regular nutrition without the burden of cookingDay programs or hobby groups promote mental stimulation and social interactionResources to Explore Support Options:Eldercare Locator A nationwide service connecting older adults and caregivers with trustworthy local support resources. https://eldercare.acl.gov/Public/Index.aspxBenefitsCheckUp by NCOA A free, confidential tool to help older adults find benefits and support programs. https://www.ncoa.org/benefits-checkupAARP Technology Resources for Seniors Guides for using smart home devices, tablets, and safety tech. https://www.aarp.org/home-family/personal-technology/ Summer is a season of freedom and with the right supports in place, seniors can experience that freedom in ways that enrich their health, happiness, and quality of life. Call us today to learn more, 303-957-2555.
Spruce Health Group is an integrated health care practice serving aging adults and seniors who want to live life more comfortably and independently. Their specialties include osteoarthritis and knee pain. For each new and returning patient, they create a one-of-a-kind plan with long-term success in mind.Patients with knee pain, ankle pain, shoulder pain, elbow pain, or pain in any other joint have options for innovative injectable treatments. In addition, the team helps patients achieve long-term pain relief and better mobility with ongoing physical therapy, nutritional guidance, supplements, and chiropractic spine treatments.Locations across the Front Range