We use our arms and shoulders for countless tasks every single day, and if a new pain develops in our shoulders, everyday movements can become extremely uncomfortable. Unfortunately, some of our everyday habits may actually be harmful to our shoulder health, so it’s important to understand which actions you’ll want to be mindful of as you go about your day. In today’s blog, we take a closer look at five daily habits that may be hurting your shoulder health.
Daily Habits That Contribute To Shoulder Pain
We’re not saying that any of these actions will result in overnight shoulder pain, but over an extended period, these habits can serve to overstress muscles, ligaments and other soft tissues in your shoulder joint, potentially increasing your risk of certain conditions like arthritis or instability. Here’s a few daily habits you’ll want to avoid.
- Poor Seated Posture – Many people assume that our bodies are not under very much stress when we’re in a seated position, but that’s not exactly true. When you’re sitting for an extended period of time, your muscles must endure prolonged static pressure, which can end up weakening muscle groups over time. You can mitigate some of this stress by having healthy seated posture and limiting how much time you spend in the same seated position. Having slouched or hunched posture when seated puts even more stress on your spine and shoulders, which can expedite muscle fatigue and joint degeneration.
- How We Carry Accessories – If you always throw your purse or your backpack over one shoulder, all this extra stress can take a toll on that shoulder over time. Always carry a backpack with straps over both shoulders, and make it a point to switch up which side you carry a purse on so that one shoulder isn’t more stressed than the other.
- Prolonged Cell Phone Use – The majority of Americans have a smartphone, and many people spend hours a day on their phones. If you have your phone in your lap while you’re scrolling for hours, your shoulders are going to be in an unnaturally hunched position. Holding this position for an extended period can lead to problems with the soft tissues in your shoulder.
- Sleeping On An Unsupportive Mattress – We spend a third of our lives in our beds, and if your mattress isn’t supportive of your shoulders, spine and body, these areas can be stressed during a time when they are supposed to be relaxed. If you can’t remember the last time you replaced your mattress, or you’re waking up feeling sore or stiff, it may be time to find a more supportive mattress. Sleeping position is also important. Sleeping on your stomach can put added strain on your neck and shoulders since you need to turn your head to one side in order to breathe. Instead, try sleeping on your side or your back.
- Not Warming Up Our Shoulders Before Exercise Or Athletics – Finally, it’s important to take a few minutes to stretch your arms and your shoulders prior to activity. Whether you’re preparing to shovel snow off the driveway or heading off to play Pickleball, take a few minutes to stretch your shoulders so that they are ready for the stress that is about to come. If your shoulders are forced to go from an inactive to an active state without much warning, you’re at a heightened risk for injury. Stretching helps the tissues in your shoulder make the transition from inactive to active state.
Work to limit these regular habits, and your shoulders will be healthier for it! If you need professional help overcoming a shoulder injury or condition, reach out to Dr. Holloway and his team today at (865) 410-7887.
