Tips for Avoiding Stress and Strain While Working at Your Computer Did you know that working at a computer for long periods of time can cause strain to your body? Spending significant amounts of time on the computer is normal in today’s world, though. Working adults and school children use computers for extended periods every day, and they may be putting their health at risk by engaging in some unhealthy habits. This is serious: A report published in 2015 in the Annals of Internal Medicine found an association between sitting for long periods and a greater risk for deleterious health outcomes — even for those who engaged in regular exercise! Thankfully, it is possible to develop healthier habits that reduce the risk of spinal stress and strain. Here are some practical tips you can start right away to help incorporate healthy habits at work. Set Correct Chair Height While sitting at the computer, your forearms should be positioned at a right angle to the upper arms, which should hang comfortably at the side of your body. Adjust your chair height to ensure this 90-degree angle, but also consider the angle of your wrists — they should be kept straight while Read more…
You’ve probably heard of tennis elbow before, but have you heard of golfer’s elbow? Golfer’s elbow affects the forearm muscles. The muscles that attach from the wrist and go to the “funny bone” area of the elbow near the inner bump. These muscles are responsible for wrist flexion. In other words, they allow you to twist your wrist. The truth is you don’t have to play golf to experience golfer’s elbow. Anyone that regularly completes tasks that involve repetitive wrist flexion or forearm pronation (like swinging a golf club) can experience this problem. How do you know if you have it? Those with Golfer’s Elbow are likely to experience pain or tenderness near the funny bone or inner bump of the elbow, as well as some swelling. The pain may be persistent or just felt when the muscles are in use. Another common symptom of golfer’s elbow is reduced strength in grip, which is a major issue if you actually play golf! Here are some things you can do to help manage your symptoms and get rid of your Golfer’s Elbow: 1) Rest: I know, I know this may be difficult to hear for avid golfers. But if you are in Read more…