A stiff neck and heavy shoulders after desk work are a reason to review how long you spend leaning towards a screen. Assessment considers your symptoms, movement and daily habits, rather than neck appearance alone.
Understanding common descriptions of neck posture
Forward-head posture describes the head sitting ahead of the shoulders. A straightened neck refers to a reduced cervical curve, while a neck hump describes fullness around the base of the neck. Appearance alone does not establish the cause of pain.
Tell the doctor about tingling or weakness
Neck and shoulder discomfort may occur with tension around the shoulder blades or the back of the head. Tingling extending into the arm or fingers, reduced hand strength, or worsening pain that interrupts sleep warrants medical assessment for other causes.
Assessment comes before treatment selection
We examine posture and movement and may use ultrasound to assess muscles and tendons when appropriate. Acupuncture, electroacupuncture, pharmacopuncture or Chuna manual therapy may be considered following assessment. Advice for exercises at home or work is also provided.
Review your desk habits
Position the top of the monitor near eye level and consider a stand and separate keyboard for laptop work. Take regular movement breaks rather than holding one position for long periods, and reduce the time spent looking down at your phone.
Adapted from the clinic director's Korean blog article. This information does not replace individual assessment. Treatment choices depend on your symptoms and health.
Read the original blog post (Korean)All insights