News

Unsupported Elbow Syndrome and Sitting Disease

What is Unsupported Elbow Syndrome

Unsupported Elbow Syndrome is a condition where the Levator Scapulae muscle spasms from being overworked due to unsupported elbows. The muscle from the shoulder blade to the neck contracts, getting shorter, harder, and less flexible. Without adequate support, the elbows are working as if they were holding a 20-pound dumbbell, creating a painful trigger point.

Who is at risk of Unsupported Elbow Syndrome

[pullquote align=”right”]

Gravity is not your friend if you work at a desk or drive for a substantial amount of time. Without adequate support, the elbows are working as if they are holding a 20-pound dumbbell creating painful trigger points.

[/pullquote]

Over the years Leading Edge has discovered a pattern of dysfunction that can be commonly found in patients working at a desk or driving a car. These activities have two unhealthy factors in common. First, they both require a substantial amount of sitting. Second, they both promote the use of unsupported elbows when sitting.

People with Unsupported Elbow Syndrome typically have the following issues: Overweight, Poor Posture, Stiff Neck, Back Pain, Neck Pain, and Shoulder Pain.

Relief from Unsupported Elbow Syndrome

Relief from Unsupported Elbow Syndrome is not only possible, but probable, by simply incorporating three easy steps into your daily routine.

1. Reposition at your desk

Most people sit and pull their keyboard out from under the desk. We recommend moving the monitor back on the desk top and placing the keyboard and mouse on top of the desk. Your chair should be able to slide underneath the desk allowing you to have supported elbows on the desk top.

2. Change Muscle Lengths Frequently

  • For the lower back, get up and talk a brief walk to the restroom or water cooler.
  • For the neck and shoulders, do the recommended stretching (see brochure) for 5 minutes to reduce muscle tension.

3. Change to an Adjustable/Standing Workstation

For every two hours that you sit at a desk, we recommend standing for at least 20 minutes.

[horizontal_line style=”5″ margin_top=”20″ margin_bottom=”30″]

Sitting is Killing You

Sitting is the new smoking – with an average of 5 hours and 40 minutes per workday spent sitting, our risk of serious illnesses such as diabetes, heart disease, cancer, obesity, and even depression is rapidly on the rise. Research shows that hitting the gym is not the answer. Regardless of fitness level, sitting is bad for you. A recent study puts some precise numbers on the cancer risks associated with too much sitting. For every two hours spent sitting in front of the computer or television, the average person raises his or her risk of colon cancer by 8%, of endometrial cancer by 10%, and of lung cancer by 6%. Stand up, it’s good for your mind & body.

[horizontal_line style=”5″ margin_top=”20″ margin_bottom=”30″]

Adjustable/Standing Workstations

At Leading Edge, we continually research and test products that help eliminate Unsupported Elbow Syndrome and Sitting Disease, and make these products available for purchase to our patients and costumers. This approach takes the guess work out of your hands, allowing you will know that you are getting the best product for your budget.

We Offer a Full-Service Solution

Did you know Leading Edge Physical Therapy offers a full service Adjustable Workstation solution? We will not only sell you an adjustable workstation, but we will deliver, install, and ensure it is working to your satisfaction.

[columns]

[column layout=”two”]

Come Experience an Adjustable Workstation Before You Buy

Would you like to see how an Adjustable Workstation functions, and if it would be right for you? Leading Edge recently completed a remodel of our Lakeland Florida Clinic including a multi-desk receptionist station. In this area we incorporated two adjustable workstations that has been the continual topic of many conversations. If you would like to see it in action, stop by and check them out.
[/column]

[column layout=”two”]
[slider slider_height=”500″ image_resize=”true” image_crop=”true” flex_slider_effect=”slide” slider_timeout=”8″]



[/slider]

[/column]

[/columns]

[horizontal_line style=”5″ margin_top=”20″ margin_bottom=”30″]

Unsupported Elbow Syndrome & Sitting Disease Company Seminar

Would you like to teach your employees the dangers of Unsupported Elbow Syndrome and Sitting Disease? Leading Edge offers a brief 1-hour seminar where we teach the importance of proper posture, sitting habits, stretches, and much more.

We have demonstrated this material to many large and small companies throughout Central Florida over the past year, and have see successful implementation and an increase in employee health. Our seminar can save you thousands of dollars in missed employee work time and insurance costs.

Contact David Dobson Today to Schedule your Companies Unsupported Elbow Syndrome and Sitting Disease Seminar

[horizontal_line style=”5″ margin_top=”20″ margin_bottom=”30″]

Check out our Unsupported Elbow Syndrome and Sitting Disease Brochure!

Download the brochure

[column layout=”one”]


[/column]