7 Reasons Youre in Pain

Poorly Positioned Workstation

These days, many of us spend several hours a day in a computer chair. Slouching puts strain on the neck and back, so do your best to sit straight up with your feet flat on the floor. If you can, make sure the top of your monitor is at eye level. If you still feel sore at the end of the workday, use a cushion to take some of the pressure off your lower back.

Keyboard Strain Typing all day can put you at risk for carpal tunnel syndrome, a nerve condition that causes pain or numbness in the hands and wrists. Youre more likely to develop the problem if youre constantly bending your wrists, so see if you can tilt your keyboard to keep your hands in line with your forearms. If that doesnt help, consider buying an ergonomic keyboard.

Texting Troubles Believe it or not, smartphones pose a serious health risk. If youre constantly texting, playing games, or surfing the web on your mobile device, you could overwork your thumbs and give yourself arthritis. You can start by taking it easy with the texting (why make a couple of extra calls, instead?), but if the pain persists, be sure to see a doctor.

Tight Ponytails Its great to get your hair out of your face when you want to get things done, but pulling it back too tight may prompt a headache, especially if youre prone to migraines. Try a looser style or wear your hair down.

Sleep Posture Many of us wake up with knots in our backs and complain that we must have slept funny. Sleeping on your stomach can cause you to twist your neck to the point of hyperextension, and side-snoozing isnt safe either: If you sleep with an arm over your head, it could strain your shoulder. Its best to sleep on your back, but if you prefer the fetal position, just make sure your arms are below shoulder level.

Teeth Grinding If you wake up to a dull headache and an aching jaw, you could be grinding your teeth during the night. Be sure to tell your dentist, and shell provide you with a protective mouth guard to wear at night.