Digital devices are everywhere these days, we can’t live without them.  However, they can lead to pain and stiffness in the neck and shoulders.  In this short article we are going to give you a few quick tips for reducing the pain associated with digital devices.

Take a Break

Holding up your phone or tablet for extended periods of time can strain the muscles in your shoulders, arms and fingers. Let your arms rest at your sides every so often and look up the ceiling in order stretch your back out.  This simple stretch can help alleviate some of the pressure on your spine when you are looking down at your digital device for long periods.

The 20-20-20 Rule

Give your eyes a break! Every 20 minutes, take 20 seconds to look about 20 feet ahead (or as far as possible).

Stretch it Out

Slowly turn your head towards your left shoulder, hold for five seconds and repeat on your right side.

Change Positions

Try to avoid sitting for longer than 30 minutes at a time. Get up and walk around!
The only thing that’s more important than “perfect” posture is movement.

Raise your phone up closer to eye level to reduce strain on your neck. When watching lectures on your tablet or laptop, be sure to prop it up against something so your shoulders and arms can relax.

A 2014 study in Surgical Technology International showed that even a 15-degree
head tilt adds 27 pounds of pressure. As we use our phones and laptops more and
more, that stress adds up!

If you still have pain and discomfort after trying these tips, it is possible that you need to see a chiropractor.  They can give you more detailed and specific advice as well address the issues causing the pain.