Each and every day, we indulge in activities that are often harmful to our neck. As you sandwich your phone between ears and shoulders, there is serious harm that you are doing to your neck. When you sit for long hours in front of the laptop, you are not treating your neck right. And as you bend down to access your smartphone for long hours, it is the worst thing you could do to your neck actually.
Generally, neck pain is experienced overnight and it gradually increases with time. For patients with arthritis or degenerative disk disease, the conditions may be worse. And in case of those who do not sit in proper, healthy positions, the conditions may even worsen as it tends to weaken muscles and cause stress. Lack of sleep is one more factor that contributes to poor neck health, say experts.
Keep changing your position
Remember never to sit for long hours in the same posture. Often times, almost every day, we tend to sit in front of the computer or laptop for long hours without even knowing that we are remaining immovable for long hours. This is literally a bad posture that can largely impact your neck health. Experts advise us to change position every now and then. For this, you may get up and simply more around indoors. If time permits, move outdoors so that you also get some fresh air to breathe in.
May you have some ergonomic comfort
Have your computer screen in such a way that it does not affect your eyes. The screen should be of your eye level so that you can easily access the same. Make use of headset or hands free connectivity products with your device. If you are using your tablet, have it at a 45 degree angel so that it delivers comfort while usage.
Are you supposed to wear a glass? Has your eye doctor prescribed wearing a power glass? In case it has been long since you went for a checkup with an eye doctor, it is time now to knock his doors and get your eyes checked thoroughly. If you are advised to wear power glasses, do so without any hesitation. Never have a second thought or the idea to skip the use of spectacles.
Do not pile up your pillows for sleep
There is the common practice of sleeping with too many pillows. In fact, there are people who want at least three pillows for good sleep. But it is a fact that having too many pillows can actually stifle the neck. Hence, avoid doing so. It is better that you lie flat, or use just one pillow.
Restrict yourself in doing physical activities
You know your body better than anyone else. So restrict yourself in performing different activities like moving heavy objects like the furniture or gas cylinder. This may indirectly or directly affect your neck, hands or hip bones. Rather than handling strenuous activities all by yourself, get help from others in your family.
Sound sleep is imperative
You need to have very good night time sleep in order to escape a lot of troubles in the neck like the musculoskeletal pain. Go to bed early and wake up early. Do not use your smartphone devices for long hours at night as it directly affects your wellbeing.
In addition to the aforementioned tips, you need to regularly give your neck and total body some relaxation and stretching. This is particularly essential for people who are in a very sedentary lifestyle. Avoid using gadgets at the maximum. Use it only for few hours when it is inevitable.
Generally, neck pain is nothing to worry about, but if it`s occurring with other, more serious symptoms, such as radiating pain, weakness, or numbness of an arm or leg, make sure to see your doctor. "Other key things that might make one more concerned are having a fever or weight loss associated with your neck pain, or severe pain," said Dr. Isaac. "You should let your doctor know about these symptoms."