iPods, Blackberries a Literal ‘Pain in the Neck,’

With the increasing popularity of cell phones, Blackberries, I-Pods and handheld games, Americans are spending a lot of time peering down at their laps. While the gadgets are a source of entertainment and help keep people connected to friends and coworkers, handheld devices are also a source of muscle pain and injury, according to the American Chiropractic Association.

“I have seen a dramatic increase in the number of people complaining of pain as a result of their handheld devices,” said Dr. Keith Overland, a chiropractor from Norwalk, Conn. Dr. Overland says most of his patients don’t realize how much looking down at a gadget can worsen neck, back and shoulder problems.

“We actually ask patients to hold the device in their hands and then take a look at the way they’re holding their body,” Dr. Overland noted. “We can see almost immediately the cause of their pain – poor posture and overused muscles.”

To help lessen muscle soreness caused by popular handheld devices, Dr. Overland and the American Chiropractic Association suggest the following:
Practice good posture when using any handheld device. Sit in a chair that provides solid back support and keep feet comfortably on the floor.
Spend 10 minutes or less with your head tilted down looking at the device, and when possible hold the gadget at eye level.
When at home or in the office, connect the device to your keyboard or computer.
Take frequent breaks and alternate activities that use different muscle groups.
Watch for warning signs of overuse such as headaches, fatigue or muscle pain.