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Rounded Shoulders


When working at a desk or a computer, we often tend to lean forward, hunching over the desk, rounding our shoulders. Or we crane our heads forward to better view the monitor. Over time, these activities tend to round our shoulders, stretching the back muscles and tightening the chest muscles. This poor posture not only makes work more difficult to accomplish, placing stress on the upper back, shoulder and neck and leading to soreness, but it also can impact the effectiveness of our internal organs.

One way to check your posture is to have a friend stand at your side and observe the alignment of your ears in relationship to your shoulders. If your ears and shoulders are not in line, chances are your shoulders are rounded.

Another way to check your posture is to let your hands rest at your side. Normal posture would be for the thumbs to face forward, your palms facing towards your thighs. If the palms are facing towards the back, your chest muscles may be tight causing your shoulders to hunch forward.

Try this exercise to help your body ease into a more neutral posture.

Shoulder Circles

For More Helpful Exercises

Sleeping Tips

Marji Hajic is an Occupational Therapist and a Certified Hand Therapist practicing in Santa Barbara, California. For more information on hand and upper extremity injuries, prevention and recovery, visit Hand Health Resources.




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