Health care providers – Register for the RSDSA Annual conference in Scottsdale, Arizona, March 28.  “New Perspectives on CRPS: Research, Diagnosis and Treatment“

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Yes, computers are a pain in the neck, in more ways than 1.  We know we get frustrated when they crash, gobble up – but don’t save – our writing, or do the quirky things they like to do.

But research is now confirming that computers are also associated with physical neck pain and headaches.

Headaches and neck pain are among the most common musculoskeletal complaints in the general population.  A recent study has reported that these complaints are highly prevalent among adolescents, too.  It’s not hard to guess why, given their high level of computer use.

In the study, sitting for lengthy periods in fixed postures such as at computer terminals was a risk factor for pain.  The researchers found that higher reports of neck pain occurred in those students with more hours of computing.  Interestingly, headaches occurred more often in students with greater psychosocial problems, and were more common in girls.

The study recommended educating new computer users (school students) about appropriate ergonomics and postural health.  A good reminder for all of us!

The study “Prevalence of neck pain and headaches: impact of computer use and other associative factors,” by Smith et al., appeared in Cephalgia, Volume 29, February 2009, pages 250-257(8).  Other related articles:

• How to sit at your computer to avoid pain
• Exercises to prevent computer pain
• Is your computer causing you pain?
• How to be a computer athlete

Grand Rounds is up this week at Doc Gurley.