This is one of the most common reasons people come to see us, and one of the most misunderstood, because the standard advice is largely wrong.
There is no single correct way to sit, and no good evidence that a slightly slumped posture causes pain or damage. Studies looking for a relationship between posture and back or neck pain have not found a strong one. Plenty of people with immaculate posture have pain and plenty with terrible posture do not. What does cause trouble is staying in any one position for hours without moving, combined with neck, shoulder and back muscles that have never been asked to be strong. Your best posture is your next posture.
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What actually helps
Movement variety, which in practice means changing position and getting up regularly rather than achieving a perfect one. Strength, because muscles that can hold a position comfortably for hours are strong muscles, and most desk workers have not built them. And treatment for the pain and stiffness you have now, so you can move without it hurting.
A sensible workstation setup helps, and it is worth getting right, but it is a smaller factor than the two above and it is where most of the attention goes.
What treatment involves
Assessment of where the pain is coming from and what your neck and shoulders can tolerate, hands on treatment to settle it, a strength programme, and practical advice on your working day. We will look at your setup, and we will not sell you a special chair.
When it is more than a desk problem
Pain travelling below the elbow, pins and needles in the hands, weakness, or pain that wakes you at night deserves a proper assessment rather than being written off as desk posture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is my bad posture causing my pain?
What should I change first?
Do I need a special chair or standing desk?
When is it more than a desk problem?
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