Don’t Let Old Man Winter Break Our Backs

Winter can wreak havoc on active lifestyles. The temperatures drop, along with our motivation to move, and so the time we spend sitting rises and we tend to experience more shoulder, neck and back pain. For those experiencing increased pain or discomfort, working with a chiropractor can help.

        There are several simple steps we can take every day to correct poor sitting posture. Set up the work area for success:

• The keyboard should be directly in line with our shoulder and right under our elbow. If we are reaching too far for the keyboard, smaller muscle groups begin to fatigue and overcompensate with larger muscles, resulting in upper back and neck pain.
• The monitor should be 22 to 26 inches away from our eyes to reduce eyestrain. The weight of our head is equivalent to a bowling ball, so the further we strain our neck, the harder our back muscles have to work.
• The lumbar support of the chair should be placed right above the belt line. Sitting toward the edge of the seat can challenge our core to help stabilize the lower back.

To schedule an appointment at any of the 15 Aligned Modern Health Chicagoland locations, call 773-453-6566.