The most common cause of pain behind the neck and into the shoulders is work related. Sitting in front of the computer for long periods of time makes our body begins to "sag" forward, our head tilts downwards and the shoulders start to rotate inward shortening the pectorals or chest muscles. When this happens the muscles in the back stretch out to compensate for the pulling in the front. Just like a rubber band when a muscle gets stretched it tightens up causing tension. Since the majority of us don't have the luxury of simply switching jobs paying attention to our posture will help immensely.
Setting your shoulders:
In a relaxed position raise your shoulders towards your ears
Next bring them straight back moving only your shoulders
Again moving only your shoulders bring them straight down to the final position
Now your set. Literally.
A quick little hint: Put a sticky note on your computer, rear view mirror or both simply stating "SET YOUR SHOULDERS". This will be your constant reminder for relieving that ongoing back pain.
Nathaniel Porter-Gowan,RMT
