The pace of living today compared to 20-30 years ago has at least doubled if not tripled. Technology was suppose to help and simplify our lives but I have a hard time believing that it is so. Many of my clients complain of neck and back pain due to their sedentary job working with computers. One of the suggested tips is to move the monitor to the eye level or adjust the seat higher. There is a whole line of ergonomic chairs and desks.
LA Times reports that “Teens compulsive texting can cause neck injury.[1] One may argue that in the past we read books with our heads in the same position. That may be true but it is an opinion of this writer that growing up we had less high tech distractions and we were more outside MOVING.
It is really a shame that we have become slaves (in a sense) to the modern technology whether it is required at your job or voluntary at home. Many people seek chiropractic, or massage treatments, or exercise, over pain medication to remedy the aches and stiffness they have. Although for some it’s a temporary relief. Many find better results if they commit to these
treatment or activities on a regular basis.
Many of my clients come for a massage session be it 30 or 60 minutes to loosen up before they have a chiropractic adjustment. Many come after the workout to ‘calm’ the muscles. There are several different massage techniques to accommodate your specific issue. I can say with confidence that at least 85-90% of my clients come for neck/shoulders/lower back issues. Those client require mostly Deep Tissue massage with combination of trigger point therapy or myofascial release. Hot towels are also used to relax muscles and even an anti-inflammatory massage cream is used too. For those stubborn muscles, depending on muscle tone, a thumper is used.
It is a truly great feeling to get a feedback from the client saying “My lower back feels much better and my neck is not stiff anymore”. Per need basis I give suggestions on stretching, soaking in Epsom salt bath or refer them to another professional, be it a chiropractic doctor or physical therapist, if we both feel that it may enhance their quality of life. On a few occasions some clients need to consult with their doctor if they are recovering from surgery or injury and they feel that massage may be of benefit to them.
[1] http://www.latimes.com/health/la-he-text-neck-20150404-story.html
