[selowitch]

Hi, folks.

Like many of us, I spend way too much time computing. Although I have taken some steps to improve the ergonomics of my laptop and desktop machines, I still suffer from an aching upper back and neck. My office chairs are fairly supportive, and I have a nice AirDesk that raises my laptop and its external keyboard to a reasonably good height.

In spite of all this, and a lot of chiropractic care, ice, heat, massagers, etc. I'm still quite uncomfortable. Any hints or experiences to share?

[xi_hyperon]

The best thing for me has always been exercise. Without it, I get a really aching upper back and shoulders.

[selowitch]

Originally Posted by xi_hyperon

The best thing for me has always been exercise. Without it, I get a really aching upper back and shoulders.

Are lat pulldowns (i.e., using a latissimus weight machine) helpful for you?

[invisibleX]

Never really have any problems there since I started using a wooden chair. Looks horribly uncomfortable but I no longer get a sore back.

[selowitch]

Originally Posted by invisibleX

Never really have any problems there since I started using a wooden chair. Looks horribly uncomfortable but I no longer get a sore back.

No kidding? Does it support your lumbar area and shoulders well enough? It would seem to fly in the face of conventional wisdom, wouldn't it?

[xi_hyperon]

Originally Posted by selowitch

Are lat pulldowns (i.e., using a latissimus weight machine) helpful for you?

Yes, in fact, that's one of the exercises I do regularly. Seems to work out the right muscles to prevent the aches I would otherwise get. I focus a few different exercises that build up the shoulders and upper back, so am not sure which one is better than the other, but the pulldowns are definitely a big help. I'm out of town last week, this week and the two after that, and access to a gym is close to nil where I am. Unfortunately I'm already starting to get the old familiar aches as a result.