[Rose76]

This is getting really bad, and I would appreciate ANY feedback about what computer viewing does to you physically. Also, any solutions found to make things more comfortable would be of real interest. Doesn't have to be only about the neck. Thanks.

I get a really sore neck when I stay near the computer for too long in a bad position and it hurts so much, the pain is near the top of my back. I have to lie down for a while to get rid of the pain.

[lynn P.]

Yes spending too much time, in the wrong position can cause pain in various parts of the body. I'll give you a link and its best you have a good supportive chair and computer desk that you can adjust to your specific needs. The chair should be supportive and at a height where your feet are flat on the floor and knees level with the hips. Be aware of your arms being comfortable while typing and your screen should be in front of your eyes - so you're not looking up or down.

Take breaks often and do some arm circles and bring your arm across your body and hold with the other arm. Cross both arm to opposite sides as if you're hugging yourself - gently stretch your head from side to side as tolerated. Now I'm not doing all these things because I have my laptop at the dining table lol. If someone doesn't have one of those adjustable chairs - they can use a shoebox for their feet. One problem I get is a sore tail bone. I think many people spend too much time, especially young people and see the bodies are suffering - more children over weight.

http://www.care2.com/greenliving/9-e...r-sitting.html

[Rose76]

Thank you, both, above.

I too have to lie - well, really stretch out - on my recliner chair, head resting back, feet up, chair tipped all the way back - in order to relieve the pain in the middle of the back of my neck.

The link is much appreciated. I happen to have a chair just like the link suggests. Mine is a desk top computer. I have the screen up on top of box. I'm going to try putting it up even higher. I'll try everything suggested.

[SoupDragon]

http://www.wikihow.com/Sit-at-a-Computer

Your head weighs about 10lbs and if you are tilting you head forwards while using the computer, then that is 10lbs of weight being held by the muscles, tendons etc. in you neck and upper back. So make sure your screen is level with your eye line (top of screen horizontal to eyes).

The desk you sit at (assuming that you are sitting at a desk ) should be at the same height as your belly button (roughly) - this means that your shoulders can be relaxed when using your keyboard and will also decrease the risk of you leaning forward with the resulting head weight issue.

Take regular breaks ( a few seconds every 15 minutes) a few minutes every hour.

There ends todays lesson for healthy computer use. Soup

I have more problems with my shoulders and arms and neck ... I try to remember to get up every 30 minutes and walk around and stretch a bit ... If I forget they're sure to remind me before an hour's up ... Then I have no choice but to Move It Move It ...
(I like that song ...) ... !!!

[Beholden]

Ice and heat really help too. I used to think just heat, but when I use ice to sort of numb it out and then alternate with heat, it reallys helps me get out of pain.

[Rose76]

Thanks to all. I have checked the website SoupDragon recommended. I am implementing all recommendations.

I am having degenerative problems with my upper spine. I guess that 10 pounds of weight explains why my neck is so very sensitive to my head being, in any way, out of best alignment. One doctor told me it creates "shearing force."

Mainly, it seems that staying at the computer too long is going to create problems no matter how well you arrange everything. I've sure had a tendency to do that.

I've tried the ice on my right elbow, which helps my epicondylitis. Today, I'm going to try it on my neck, which is already so achy after not much time at the computer.

I guess comfort problems at the computer are not uncommon. Thanks all.

[missbelle]

Yes, I do get a sore neck and a sore arm as well..usually the right arm.....I have arthritis anyway but being on the computer can definately cause aches and pains. Thye say you should not sit that long either and get up every 45 minutes to walk and stretch