Look around your workspace and ask yourself these questions…

Do you carry a briefcase or heavy backpack on one side?

• This can effect your gait (the way you walk) and cause shoulder pain.

Is your monitor off to one side of your desk?

• This can cause neck pain.

Do you hold a telephone with your shoulder?

• This can cause shoulder and neck pain.

Do you cross the same leg while sitting at your desk?

• This can cause Sciatica, Piriformis Syndrome, and lower back pain.

These are just a few examples, so be creative and keep searching for clues.

You can also be a detective outside the office.

Do you have a large wallet in one pocket all the time?

• This can cause your hips and back pain.

Do you wear your purse on the same side?

• This can cause one shoulder to raise up higher.

Do you always blow dry, comb you hair, or brush your teeth with the same hand?

• This can cause tension and pain in the muscles on that side.

Do you read in bed with your head propped up on a pillow?

• This can cause forward head, rounded lower back, neck pain, and lower back pain.

How do you sleep?

• This can cause a number of problems depending on your position.

“I found the detective work very helpful. I was able to identify several habits in my own life that I can easily change to alleviate my neck and shoulder pain. I found the PowerPoint slides very helpful. It helped keep my attention and reiterated your points.”

Check out our book The Office Effect for even more information about being a repetitive stress detective.