Working at a computer all day and feel back pain and neck stiffness?

Your Chiropractor in West Los Angeles recommends these 4 easy stretches to be done right at your desk!

The body doesn't want to be in one position for a long period of time. But, that's exactly what we do in our modern times. We sit in that one position, in front of the computer, and consequently, place stress on our muscles and joints. Before you know it, your neck, shoulder and back feels achy and stiff, which causes you stress, mentally and physically.  Luckily, there are some simple stretches that you can do in your chair to prevent this build up of tension, before it turns into a more serious problem!

If you find yourself sitting all day at the computer, the following stretches should be done 2 to 3 times a day, to prevent stiffness and pain in the body:

Directions:

Stretch until you feel a slight mild tension and hold 10-15 seconds. Relax. As you hold the stretch, the feeling of tension should begin to diminish. Breathe. Repeat 3-4 times, each time moving a fraction of an inch farther into the stretch until you feel mild tension again. Hold for 5-10 seconds. Again, the feeling should diminish or stay the same. If the tension increases or becomes painful, you are overstretching - back off into a more comfortable stretch. Use the above sequence for any muscle group you are stretching.

Keep the following points in mind:

• Breathe slowly, rhythmically and under control. Do not hold your breath.
• Always stretch within your comfortable limits, never to the point of pain.
• Take your time. Relax and breathe. The long-sustained, mild stretch reduces unwanted muscle tension and tightness.
• If you are stretching correctly, the stretch feeling should slightly subside as you hold the stretch. Never bounce or use abrupt movements.
• Tune into your body. Focus on the muscles and joints being stretched and allow yourself to be guided by the feel of the stretch. Concentrate only on the stretch. CALM YOUR MIND.