Online Help - December 2006
Christmas is nearly here, and that usually means lots of trudging around the
shops laden with carrier bags. Unsurprisingly this results in arm, shoulder
and neck problems being a primary reason for people visiting the osteopath
at this time of year.
Upper limb disorders are often the result of over-use. Common examples are
repetitive strain injuries (RSI) tennis elbow and rotator cuff injuries.
Carrying bags that are heavy or too big results in an increased strain on
the forearm and shoulder muscles.
This can create strain in the neck and
back, which can then be transferred to the pelvis, hip and lower limb -
illustrating the osteopathic principle of the body being a single unit!
So, what can you do to avoid these seasonal aches and pains? Firstly, and most obviously, try to avoid doing lots of shopping in one go. Ask for more, smaller bags instead of one big one. Take regular breaks from carrying and stretch the arms and shoulder out in the opposite direction to your carrying position.
Remember to stretch the backs of the shoulders out especially well as problems here can refer pain down the arm into the hand. Internet and mail order shopping take some of the physical strain out of shopping but remember, a poorly laid out computer station can do just as much harm!
If you have overdone it and the symptoms persist or you get shooting pains or pins and needles into the arms or hands, you should see your osteopath as soon as possible.
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Please note that Victoria will be away over the Christmas period and therefore no e-mail enquiries will be answered between December 17th 2006 and January 8th 2007.
Stephen Goddard BSc (Hons) Ost will be looking after the practice over Christmas whilst Victoria is away on holiday.
Stephen graduated from the British College of Osteopathic Medicine in 2004 and has worked in Cardiff and Cambridge since.
He is a keen amateur windsurfer and also enjoys martial arts.
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