NEWNAMES, OLD PROBLEMS Avoid the Pain of Technology-Related Injuries
Repetitive motion injuries, spinal misalignment, and improper postures are painful regardless of what activity you engage in, but as technology becomes more common, so too do these injuries. And injuries that used to only affect older adults are now seen in children and have negative effects on their physical development. The best way to avoid technology-related injuries is to spend less time with technology, though this can be a problem if you have to sit in front of a computer for work all day. If you can’t use less technology, be sure to create healthy habits around technology. Practice good posture when sitting in front of your computer, take regular breaks to stretch and move around, and avoid straining your neck when you use your phone. If you want to learn how to avoid suffering from a technology- related injury, or if you are struggling with the pain of a pre-existing injury, call Horizon PT at 810-620-8042. Our experienced physical therapists can teach you the right stretches to prevent common injuries and create a customized treatment plan to help you recover from all the time spent on your smartphone.
Text neck. Selfie-elbow. Wiiitis. These names might sound funny, but the pain that comes with these conditions is no laughing matter. While technology has made day-to-day life easier, it has also led to a flood of sources of chronic pain, and physical therapists and patients alike should take precautions. The average American spends at least 10 hours a day with some sort of screen, hunched at their work computer, craning their neck down to send a text, or slouching in front of the television after a long day. This sedentary lifestyle isn’t just bad for your heart or waistline; injuries in the neck, shoulders, and spine are on the rise. It can be tempting to brush off technology-related injuries as a sign of vanity or a lack of self-control. The silly names for these injuries don’t help outsiders take them seriously. But keep in mind that while the names might be new, these conditions have been tormenting people for a long time. Take “selfie-elbow,” for example: a repetitive stress injury that comes from regularly taking photos with your smartphone. Until recently, this kind of injury was most commonly referred to by another name: tennis elbow.
Green Bean and Sesame Salad Ingredients
Have a Laugh
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3 cups green beans, ends trimmed 1 teaspoon white wine vinegar
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 tablespoons sesame seeds, toasted 1 small red onion, finely chopped Small bunch of fresh mint Small bunch of flat-leaf parsley
Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions
1. Bring a large saucepan of water to boil; cook green beans for 4–5 minutes; drain well. 2. In a blender, mix finely choppedmint and parsley with olive oil, vinegar, salt, and pepper. Blend until combined. 3. Add dressing, onion, and sesame seeds to beans. Toss together. Cool dish, then refrigerate until ready to serve.
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Inspired by Delicious magazine.
810.620.8042
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