Schedule an Appointment Today

760-444-0102

We strive for 100% patient satisfaction.
Our clinics are spacious.
We offer on-site Aquatic Therapy.
We use the latest techniques and technologies.
Vista
Rancho Bernardo
National City
Mission Valley
Carmel Valley
Carlsbad

Sitting At Your Computer May Be Hazardous to Your Health

Working at ComputerThe physical therapists at Proactive for Physical Therapy and Sports Medicine have been  seeing a growing trend of computer operators developing pain. The public is generally familiar  itch carpal tunnel syndrome developing as a result of excessive computer use. Less well known are a variety of overuse syndromes affecting the arms, shoulders, head and neck and back pain from continuous computer use.

The common factors that physical therapists see in their clients with overuse syndromes are:

  1. Prolonged sitting at the computer.
  2. Sedentary lifestyle.
  3. Relaxed or slumped sitting posture.
  4. Weakness of the spinal stabilizing muscles.
  5. Inflexibility of neck, shoulder and back muscles.
  6. Poor workstation ergonomics and poor positioning in front of the computer.

The physical therapist that works with clients suffering with overuse syndromes will address the factors that contribute to pain and dysfunction. Postural correction  exercises, flexibility exercises, spinal stabilization exercises, and education on  ergonomics will be a part of the physical therapy program.The computer us can take action no to minimize or prevent overuse syndromes from occurring.  We suggest the following:

  1. Take frequent rest breaks from the computer. Get yourself out of the chair and stand or walk down the hall.
  2. Increase your exercise level by taking a walk at lunch, use the stairs instead of the elevator, ride a bike instead of driving a car, and begin a regular exercise routine.
  3. Actively work on sitting up straight instead of slumping. A good chair and desk will help  you to sit properly.
  4. A workstation ergonomic assessment to ensure a safe work environment.
  5. A convertible standing/sitting desk will help to minimize the negative effects of prolonged  sitting.

physical therapist at Proactive for Physical Therapy and Sports Medicine can help you  get started with these changes towards a healthy work and home lifestyle.

About the Author - Dana

Dana has been a physical therapist for over 30 years. He earned his Bachelor's of Science degree in Kinesiology from University of California, Santa Barbara and his graduate degree in physical therapy from Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia.

Dana has worked in a variety of settings including inpatient rehabilitation, acute care hospitals, skilled nursing facilities, home health physical therapy and for the majority of his career in outpatient orthopedic/sports medicine clinics in San Diego. Dana works with patients ranging in age from 8 years old to 90+ years old with both orthopedic and neurological diagnosis.

Dana has taken several continuing education courses focused on the shoulder, the thrower’s shoulder, the knees, TMD diagnosis and treatment, and manual therapy evaluation and treatment for extremities and the spine. Outside of work, Dana's passions range from vintage automobiles to surfing the beautiful beaches in north San Diego county.