Focus on Tech Workers
Seattlites and observers of Seattle are well aware of the tech industry's role in the city. Nearly 9 out of every 10 office jobs in Seattle are tech jobs. Working in tech often comes with its own special challenges for those who choose this career path. Many tech folks report dealing with the effects of working long hours with technology such as stress, headaches, back aches, carpal tunnel syndrome, back pain and the dreaded 'tech neck' syndrome.
Tech Neck
Let's talk more about Tech Neck. Even though the phrase 'tech neck' specifically indicates the neck, the symptoms often begin elsewhere. The trouble starts with the spine; if stress is placed on one area, it is likely to spread to others, or at least be felt in other regions. In the case of tech neck, the bending of the cervical spine often manifests as pain the upper back.
Most often, tech neck manifests as:
- Pain in the upper back
- Mild ache in the neck
- Stiffness or sharp pain in the neck
- Reduced mobility in the shoulder/neck region
Have you been hunched over a screen (smartphone, tablet, laptop, etc) for a sustained period of time? If you have, it’s possible that you’re suffering from tech neck. Lucky for you, Joe knows how to help!
Chronic Stress
Long hours, unpredictable deadlines, and feeling overburdened with responsibilities can really stress tech workers out. Chronic stress is the response to emotional pressure suffered for a prolonged period of time in which an individual perceives they have little or no control. It involves an endocrine system response in which corticosteroids are released. While the immediate effects of stress hormones are beneficial in a particular short-term situation, long-term exposure to stress creates a high level of these hormones. This may lead to high blood pressure (and subsequently heart disease), damage to muscle tissue, inhibition of growth, suppression of the immune system, and damage to mental health.
Massage has been proven to mitigate effects of chronic stress. Massage relieves muscle tension which can help you relax as well as alleviate some of the physical aches and pains associated with it. Massage also contributes to improved circulation, which bolsters the immune system as well as digestion, which can all be affected by stress.
Do you experience chronic stress? Joe can tame that tension and get you back in good working order!
Back Pain
By now we all know that too much sitting or sitting improperly can lead to all kinds of health issues. One of the most common complaints tech workers make is back pain. Sitting at a desk all day for long hours can put a lot strain on your back! If your posture is poor, it can be even worse. The human spine was not made to be in the same position for 8 hours or more. Unfortunately, many tech workers are unable or unwilling to move as much as they should, resulting in pain.
Back pain can cause issues at work, but it can also affect your life outside your job. Physical activities can be impacted, resulting in folks getting less exercise, which in turn worsens their pain creating a negative cycle of reduced mobility and reduced activity.
Is back pain is negatively impacting your life? Take a break for your health! Joe can help with massage designed to loosen up tight muscles, improve circulation and relieve that pain.
For more information about how Joe can help you with your tech-related health issues, please get in contact!
