Shoulder pain or soreness in the shoulders is common, affecting 1 in 6 people in any given month.1
In many cases this can be due to overuse of the arms or repetitive strain injury.1
Repetitive strain injuries include a number of specific disorders. One of the most well-known is carpal tunnel syndrome, a painful wrist condition caused by a pinched nerve that can lead to hand pain, numbness and weakness.2 In general, repetitive strain refers to any injury that results from overuse of a body part to perform a repetitive movement.3
For most people, repetitive strain injuries are a result of their job.2,4 Among those professions with a high risk of repetitive strain are those which use computers.2,6 Poor posture while sitting at a desk and tasks like typing and using a mouse can often result in serious back and shoulder pain.4,5,8
Of course, aches and pains associated with repetitive strain may be caused by a number of factors. So as well as treating the symptoms, it important to look closely at everything from work habits to workspace set-up.5
Problem: Overuse of hands and arms
The small, fine movements we use to type and click a mouse can cause pain in the upper body.6 When these tasks are repeated hour after hour, day after day, thousands of times, the effects start to add up. Strain to the muscles and tendons of the wrists and hands can produce painful symptoms.6 And just like sitting in one position for a long time, viewing a monitor for hours on end can strain muscles in the shoulders and neck.7,8
The Solution
Regularly stretch the arms, wrists and fingers
Get up and walk around regularly, and also if muscle fatigue starts to set in.2,4,6,8
Problem: Poor posture
Sitting in a slumped or awkward position, especially while working at a computer, can strain the upper body causing back and shoulder pain.4,8
The Solution9
When seated at a desk, feet should be flat on the floor with knees directly over them.
The lower back should be fully supported.
Arms and shoulders should be relaxed and your head should be level or bent slightly forward.
Keep frequently used objects within easy reach.
Problem: Poor technique
The modern office is full of keyboards, laptops and mobile devices and knowing how to use them correctly can prevent injury.
The Solution
When using a laptop, use a separate keyboard and mouse and make sure the screen is positioned at head height on a stable base – not your lap.9
When typing, remember to keep your wrists straight and to avoid resting your wrists on the keyboard.8,9
Use your whole arm, not just your wrist, when using the mouse.8
Type lightly and gently.8
Mix your tasks to avoid long, uninterrupted stretches of typing.8
Take breaks regularly to relieve upper body tension.4
Another way to reduce the overall risk of getting a repetitive strain injury is to stay active when you’re outside of the office. A study has shown that people who take part in some form of exercise during their leisure hours have fewer work-related repetitive strain injuries.10