In the article Dumb bells can rid working belles of neck, shoulder aches the author, listed only as IANS, cites a study in the Journal of Applied Physiology. The study used 42 women who worked in offices on repetitive tasks and did computer work. They all had reported chronic or frequent pain in the neck area and tightness and tenderness in the upper trapezius muscle (extends from back of head down the neck and into the upper back). The women were randomly divided into three groups – specific weight training, general fitness, and control. The study lasted ten weeks.
The study concluded that the women who did the specific weight training substantially reduced their aches and pains in the neck and upper back. It was therefore recommended that women who worked in an office setting with repetitive moments and computer work should do strength training with dumbbells to reduce their pain, stiffness, and tenderness.
In addition to strength training, I recommend that those working in an office setting stop frequently to stretch and change their position.
Another way to reduce neck and upper back pain is by sleeping on a comfortable mattress such as a memory foam mattress, latex mattress, or air bed. You can read about all three by reading our helpful mattress guides.
