Screens are almost completely unavoidable. From work hours spent at your laptop, to texting loved ones on the phone, to unwinding in front of the television, we all partake. However, these activities can cause strain on our necks and backs-strain that can be very uncomfortable! If you’ve noticed a stooped posture or body aches, you may need to try out these ways to manage screen use and prevent pain.
Avoid Your Phone at Certain Times
There are three times of day when you are most likely to squint at your phone, twisting your neck in a bad position to see what’s on the screen: when you ride in the car, when you’re out in the sun, and when you’re in bed. If you can, try to cut down on phone use during these times. It can make a huge difference in both posture and neck pain relief!
Take Breaks
Sitting in one place for too long-especially if your posture is less than perfect-is rarely a good thing. Try and take breaks away from the screen whenever you can. This can mean pausing your show to go do some dishes, putting down your phone to walk over to the mailbox, or leaving your desk to go up and down the stairs of your office. Plus, being active comes with plenty of other health benefits too, like better blood flow and stronger muscles.
Prioritize Good Posture
Look, everyone slumps or cranes their necks every once and a while. It’s not the best for us, but it does happen. Still, maintaining good posture is one of the most significant ways to manage screen use and prevent pain-and you should make it a priority.
Have a Buddy Snap a Pic of Your Posture
Ever wonder how you look when you’re working or using your phone? Sometimes, it’s hard to tell just how much we slump-so we might need a point of reference. Have a buddy snap a pic. Then, see if your posture needs adjusting!
Set up Your Workspace Properly
At the beginning of the year, most of us were working in an office. Now, we may have a new set-up in our homes. Have you taken the time to set up your workplace properly? You should make sure that your chair, armrests, backrests, and desks are in the proper position, so you can sit up straight and rest your elbows at a 90 degree angle along the top of your desk or table.
Stay Current on Eye Appointments
This one might be a surprise! Let us explain. If it’s hard to see your phone or screen, you’ll lean in closer, craning your neck. Not exactly the best posture! Having a current, yearly-updated vision prescription will eliminate this problem.
Visit Us
Sometimes, too much screen time takes its toll-but you can get some relief. Visit us at Advantage Chiropractic Clinic for a helpful adjustment.
Summary
Often, it’s the little things that make the biggest difference. You’ll see just how true that can be when you follow these ways to manage screen use and prevent pain.
If you have back or neck pain problems, Advantage Chiropractic Clinic may just have to solution. Need to make an appointment? Head on over to our site here. Want to learn more about chiropractic care? Our blog is waiting!