Let's focus on a subject that's near and dear to my neck: a condition aptly named "Online Spine" or "Computer-Generated Back Pain." There's a well-written article in the NYT about this, but it's behind a paywall. Here's the gist.
Tethered to our computers, almost half of us experience online spine. Health experts suggest ergonomic interventions in our workspaces to prevent this pervasive issue. Simple adjustments (such as setting our screens at eye level and our arms at right angles) can make a difference. "Neck scrunching," a habit as common as scrolling, needs conscious rectification.
It's essential to embrace frequent breaks. Getting up and walking around every 30 minutes is recommended; I set my Apple Watch to ping me every 60 minutes. Researchers even suggest that fidgeting can stave off certain kinds of back pain. Any activity is better than none.
Stretching is your friend when discomfort creeps in. Simple shoulder-opening stretches and hip-flexors can relieve upper and lower back pain. Regular exercises focusing on your core are the best preventive approach. As Dr. Edward Wei, a physical medicine and rehabilitation specialist at Massachusetts General Hospital, says, "Motion is the lotion. You've got to move."
Finally, your in-bed binge-watching position needs an overhaul. Sitting upright with your laptop on a breakfast tray is the way to go, as you trade a bit of comfort for long-term health.
On a personal note, I ignored my neck and back pain for years, to the point where I needed surgery to repair the damage caused by my poor choices of monitor and keyboard position. Now, I use a standing desk and alternate between sitting and standing each hour, and I always keep my forearms at right angles and my monitor at eye level. Trust me: prevention is way better than the cure.
As always your thoughts and comments are both welcome and encouraged. -s
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ABOUT SHELLY PALMER
Shelly Palmer is the Professor of Advanced Media in Residence at Syracuse University’s S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications and CEO of The Palmer Group, a consulting practice that helps Fortune 500 companies with technology, media and marketing. Named he covers tech and business for , is a regular commentator on CNN and writes a popular . He's a , and the creator of the popular, free online course, . Follow or visit .
