When I sit and look into the computer screen, I experience severe back pain. Please help.

Question

Hello doctor,

I am a 23 year old male. I am having pain in the upper back. When I sit on the chair in office the pain starts and it reduces when I stand, stretch or walk. I work for nine hours, from morning 11 to evening 8. I do not have any previous injuries or accidents. Eight days ago, I felt pain in the upper right back just below the shoulder. Then, the pain shifted to the upper middle back. When I sit and look into the computer screen, it pains more. When I look up, I feel relief. Give me your advice.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

You have given an excellent description of a common problem in persons who have a desk-based job. The condition you are experiencing is due to poor posture.

Stretching and looking away from your constant position is helpful as you have also figured out. Get up and move around after every half an hour. Keep the top of your computer screen at your eye level while sitting with your back supported in the chair.

You can do intermittent stretches of your neck and shoulder muscles. Practice isometric and range of motion exercises of the neck which will help you a lot.

Take painkillers and apply an anti-inflammatory gel locally for immediate relief. Do not take the painkillers for a long time.

If you follow these instructions, these will help you recover in a few days. If the pain persists, investigations may be required.