Ipods, Handheld Games & Blackberries

Can Be A Literal "Pain In The Neck!" 

 Cell phones, Blackberries, I-Pods and handheld games have Americans spending a lot of time peering down at their laps. While the gadgets are a source of entertainment and help keep people connected to friends and coworkers, handheld devices are also a source of muscle pain and injury.

“I have seen a dramatic increase in the number of people complaining of pain as a result of their handheld devices,” said Dr. Nemastil.  Most of my patients don’t realize how much looking down at a gadget can worsen neck, back and shoulder problems.

“We actually ask patients to hold the device in their hands and then take a look at the way they’re holding their body,” Dr. Mike noted. “We can see almost immediately the cause of their pain – poor posture and overused muscles.”

To help lessen muscle soreness caused by popular handheld devices, Dr. Mike and the American Chiropractic Association suggest the following:

* Practice good posture when using any handheld device. Sit in a chair that provides solid back support and keep feet comfortably on the floor.

* Spend 10 minutes or less with your head tilted down looking at the device, and when possible hold the gadget at eye level.

* When at home or in the office, connect the device to your keyboard or computer.

* Take frequent breaks and alternate activities that use different muscle groups.

* Watch for warning signs of overuse such as headaches, fatigue or muscle pain.

If you continue to feel soreness, pain or muscle strain after following these tips, it may be time to visit a doctor of chiropractic, who is trained to provide suggestions for stretching and light exercises.

Excerpt From The
American Chiropractic Association