From The Office of Ann Arbor Chiropractor, Dr. Mike Tannenbaum

Technology developed in the last 30 years has caused us to spend a lot of time sitting in front of a computer which has caused more people to have poor posture and thus more people are experiencing back pain. The correlation between poor posture and back pain with the advent of an increase in computer use is multifaceted. Basically though, the fact that people often use incorrect ergonomics when using a computer causes these people to develop poor posture and thus many of these people will experience back pain. Second, because of an increase in computer usage, people have increasingly become more sedentary and thus over weight which has a direct correlation to poor posture and back pain.

Some ways to improve your ergonomics when using a computer and to help reduce “computer usage generated” weight gain are as follows: First, and simply, make sure your computer is set-up in a ergonomically correct way. Often, the computer key board and mouse are too close to the body, our legs are not placed properly, our torso is not situated correctly and the computer screen is angled incorrectly and /or is at the wrong height. One can often find proper computer set-up sites with a Google search (make sure you are using a reputable site). Also, many large companies have training in proper ergonomics. In addition, I recommend that you put a note on your computer screen to remind yourself to check and correct your posture. You should check and correct your posture at least once an hour. Secondly, you need to commit to at least 30 minuet of cardiovascular exercise 5 days a week and a regular stretching program at least 3 days a week. This should help keep the weight off and keepi your joints and muscles healthy. Third, and of course, you want to have a healthful diet and life style.