how to prevent muscular tension while at the computer

[jbischke]

Hey all. I'm sure many of us have this same experience. When we sit at the computer for a long time tension creeps into our shoulders, neck and upper back. Who has found solutions for this? A great solution is to not spend much time behind a computer but it's a reality that many of us have to do this for our livelihood. I'd love to hear any suggestions for how people have overcome this.

Thanks!

[maclinda]

I find sitting on an exercise ball and regularly stretching my arms and neck helps a lot.

You can also get more of a chair effect with one of the ball chairs. I believe Gaiam makes one. It is a ball on a wheeled base with a small back rest.

These are really great for the lower back crinkies, because it forces you to use your small (posture, or core) back muscles to stay upright.

[Shaden]

Just get up and do something else for 10-15 minutes. The ideal situation would be to go for a walk but if you're not in a position to do so then just head for the loo or get a coffee. The simplest cure for tension is stretching.

[Cassie]

When I have long marathon sessions, I get up and stretch every 45 minutes at least. Just walking around a bit eases a lot of tension. I do some light yoga asanas with my eyes as well, to help prevent eye strain.