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September 30, 2006
Computer use and back problems
I was talking to a chiropractor a while ago. She'd said that it was important to get up and walk or do excercises regularly if you sit in front of the computer for hours. The ideal is to get up and walk around a bit every 20 minutes (and maybe do excercises like neck rolls etc). If you don't remember to do that, at least go for a 15 minute serious walk one or two times per day.
I made a crack comment about gamers. I've got friends who are gamers, and I know they sit for hours on end without getting up. And some do allnighters, especially if their league is in another time zone.
She said parents came to her, with or without their children, distraught about their kids' health. Serious gamers, and with back problems at a young age.
So I made another crack - with kids, walking around isn't going to cut it. It's too dull. How about another game? Buy a dance mat? (Originally developed for Playstation 1&2, there are also versions for the computer) See youtube video of an arcade version, you can have fun even if you're not good at it!
She flipped over the idea, and is now thinking of getting one for her 8 year old daughter!
BTW, if you decide to get one for yourself check on quality before you buy. A grown up may want a metal or hard plastic version, not those things that slide around. Oh, and a mother who had a seriously hyper 4 year old said the dance mat was the only thing that could tire her kid. After watching this five year old pro, I can believe it.
So, kids, parents, grown up computer addicts: Get moving, before you develop serious problems. I saw a net friend had written a recommendation for a physical therapist recently. I assume his computer use had been at least part of the cause for several surgeries and other back and neck issues. This therapist was working with stuff he could use at home - personally, I like the big excercise balls you sit on (see sissel-online for excercises, or even better, look up an excercise class locally). Great for core strength - fixing up abs and back, so you're stronger and less likely to get injured. Also, MBT shoes are great for posture or back problems - and especially for store clerks who need to stand around all day.
Personally, I have amassed quite a bit of home equipment over the years. My favorite is the treadmill. Norwegian winters are harsh, and with that thing, I don't have to worry about slipping and falling, and can walk or run at any speed I want.
Posted by Ann at 12:32 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack