Our digital world is ever expanding, and one may find themselves required to spend more time using technology for work, learning, and leisure. If this applies to you or your family members, it is important to be aware of how we interact to the digital world to prevent injuries that can result from prolonged positions which compromise good posture and ergonomics, resulting in pain.
When I complete a hand therapy evaluation with someone who has upper body pain and works or learns on their device, I ask several questions. How many hours a day are you using your device? How many hours at one time before taking a break are you using your device? What is your workspace and setup like? What things do you do before/after time on your device? These questions tap into a few variables that can be controlled to combat typical hand, wrist, and shoulder pain symptoms that many students and desk workers fall victim to.
The following recommendations are proactive ways to prevent upper body pain to learn and work more effectively:
Good v. Poor Sitting Posture and set-up
There is nothing fun about upper body pain derived from poor ergonomics and excessive time on technology, but there is nothing technical about the ways to improve symptoms. Being persistent and proactive with how and when we use our devices is the most important consideration one can make. Furthermore, assisting and educating younger students for success will be most helpful as digital learning continues to increase.
Aches and pains may not simply go away on their own. If you notice symptoms that will not go away (or that get worse), visit your nearest Athletico Physical Therapy to get your symptoms checked out. Your clinician can develop a plan-of-care individually tailored to your needs, or he or she can refer you out to the appropriate medical professional. Get started by scheduling your Free Assessment. Free assessments are available in-clinic or virtually through our Telehealth platform.
*Per federal guidelines, beneficiaries of plans such as Medicare, Medicaid, Tricare, VHA and other federally funded plans are not eligible for free assessments.
The Athletico blog is an educational resource written by Athletico employees. Athletico bloggers are licensed professionals who abide by the code of ethics outlined by their respective professional associations. The content published in blog posts represents the opinion of the individual author based on their expertise and experience. The content provided in this blog is for informational purposes only, does not constitute medical advice and should not be relied on for making personal health decisions.