Practical Tips and Solutions
Shoulder pain can develop suddenly and be challenging to relieve, often due to the complex nature of the shoulder joint. This joint is particularly susceptible to strain from prolonged periods of inactivity or poor posture. For example, maintaining a static position or leaning heavily on a computer desk can weaken the muscles and ligaments in the shoulder. This strain can lead to limited mobility, discomfort, and even cause pain to radiate to the neck, back, or arms.
Common Shoulder Issues
Understanding the types of shoulder conditions can help in managing and addressing discomfort effectively. Here are some typical medical shoulder issues:
Rotator Cuff Injuries: These involve tears or strains in the group of muscles and tendons that stabilise the shoulder joint. Symptoms include pain, weakness, and difficulty lifting the arm.
Shoulder Bursitis: Inflammation of the bursa, a small fluid-filled sac that cushions the shoulder joint, can cause pain and restrict movement.
Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis): This condition leads to stiffness and pain in the shoulder joint, severely limiting its range of motion.
Shoulder Impingement Syndrome: This occurs when the tendons of the rotator cuff become irritated or compressed, causing pain, especially when lifting the arm.
Shoulder Dislocation or Subluxation: This involves the ball of the shoulder joint coming out of its socket, either partially or completely, often resulting in intense pain and instability.
Preventive Measures and Ergonomic Solutions
At DSE Solutions, we recognise the significant role that proper equipment positioning and ergonomic support play in preventing shoulder pain. Here are some practical tips to help you manage and alleviate shoulder discomfort:
Position Your Keyboard and Mouse Properly: Keep these tools close to the edge of your desk. This arrangement promotes a neutral wrist position and reduces strain on the shoulder.
Use an Adjustable Chair with Arm Support: An ergonomic chair with adjustable armrests helps maintain your elbows level with the desk surface, reducing shoulder strain.
Incorporate a Flexible Document Holder: Position documents within easy reach to avoid awkward stretching or twisting motions that can strain the shoulder.
Opt for Ergonomic Chairs with Forward Tilt: Chairs with a forward tilt can alleviate strain on the back, shoulders, and neck by encouraging a more natural posture.
Ensure Proper Arm Alignment: Use chairs with adjustable armrests to align your arms with your shoulders and the centre of your body, promoting better posture.
Additional Support
A simple DSE (Display Screen Equipment) assessment and user training can significantly reduce the risk of shoulder discomfort. These assessments evaluate your workstation setup and provide tailored recommendations to improve ergonomics and comfort.
However, if shoulder pain persists despite making ergonomic adjustments, a thorough workstation assessment may be necessary. Our team at DSE Solutions is here to conduct comprehensive assessments and provide expert advice to help alleviate discomfort and improve your overall work environment.
Get in Touch
If you’re experiencing persistent shoulder pain or want to optimise your workstation setup, don’t hesitate to reach out. Contact us today to schedule a workstation assessment and explore solutions tailored to your needs.
