Written By Lucy Peters
The average American adult spends around six and a half hours a day sitting down. This statistic contributes not only to possible long-term effects such as Type 2 diabetes and obesity, but also to poor posture and, eventually, pain and stress. As found in a 2019 study by researchers at San Francisco State University, many people slouch while working on their computers, which can compress the neck, cause shoulder problems, and contribute to stress. After all, an average head and neck can weigh in the region of 45 pounds. As stated by the researchers, “When your posture is tall and erect, the muscles of your back can easily support the weight of your head and neck—as much as 12 pounds. But when your head juts forward at a 45º angle, your neck acts like a long lever lifting a heavy object.”
The Effect of Stress on Shoulder Pain
The relationship between posture, pain, and stress is complex, since stress can contribute to both poor posture and pain. Many people with anxiety disorders tense muscles throughout their body—including the neck and shoulder area—especially when they are stressed. However, even those without a mental disorder who face stress regularly, can develop pain. For instance, a study published in the Medical Journal of the Islamic Republic of Iran, undertaken on nurses, found that the incidence of neck and shoulder pain was higher in those who had a higher level of work-related stress.
Shoulder Pain Can Cause Stress
Pain in the neck and shoulder areas is not the only problem that poor posture can produce; it can also affect mental health by increasing stress. A study published in the Journal of Occupation Health and Psychology found that workers who reported more musculoskeletal pain also tended to have more stress and psychosomatic symptoms. Pain reduction under the supervision of their doctor or physical therapist should be prioritized among health care staff.
Doctors may recommend a combination of stretching, strength, and expansion exercises. Shoulder circles, doorway shoulder stretches, and the use of gym rings can also improve mobility. Those using rings at home should ensure their equipment is certified safe, and capable of bearing their weight. In addition to rings, resistance bands, and yoga mats are accessories that can be used at home to boost gym workouts or to replace them if time is of the essence.
Steps to Take to Battle Stress and Shoulder Pain
Hospitals, clinics, and other institutions employing staff who work at desks should ensure that desks and chairs are ergonomically suited to the tasks being performed. Experts in ergonomics can help ensure that everything from lighting to desk height, helps to reduce pain. Stress should be seen as a separate yet equally important issue that should be tackled proactively. Health workers should have time and opportunities to exercise outdoors, since being in nature has been found to be an effective stress buster. Also beneficial are holistic exercises such as yoga and Tai Chi, both of which can be offered to staff as a way to enhance mindfulness and relaxation.
Poor posture, neck and shoulder pain, and stress are inexorably linked. This is especially true when it comes to workers who work for many hours at desk jobs. In addition to doing exercise and battling stress regularly, workers should seek professional help if pain is prolonged. Rehabilitation exercises aiming to improve mobility and functionality can go a long way towards reducing both pain and stress.
Please also review AIHCP’s Stress Management Consulting Program and see if it matches your academic and professional goals. The program in online and independent study and open to qualified professionals.