Whether you have arthritis or are working to prevent the diagnosis in the future, knowing what can lead to it — or cause it to worsen — can help you take better care of your joints. Here are 5 everyday tasks could be causing joint pain, according to a chiropractor. 

What Can Cause Arthritis? Chiropractor Explains

1. Having Poor Posture

It can be difficult to have perfect posture, but poor posture can harm your spine. Slouching adds extra pressure to the joints and muscles, causing your spine to compress. Stand up tall with your shoulder back and your head up. If you’re sitting, remember to keep your feet flat on the floor and shoulders back to help with the natural curve of the spine. A chiropractor can also help keep your spine aligned through manual adjustments.

2. Looking Down at Devices

In a world where everyone is on some type of device, it's easy to keep your shoulders hunched over and face down. However, that causes added stress to the joints in your neck and back. Set up computers so they're at eye level, ensuring you won’t have to look down.

3. Gaming or Texting 

Many people experience hand cramps or difficulty gripping something after texting or playing video games for an extended period of time. This is because both activities keep your hand in a cramped position, putting pressure on your finger and wrist joints. Limit your time on devices and try to avoid texting with only your thumb. Try a stylus to text or use the speech-to-text function as alternatives. 

4. Sitting While Working

Sitting at a desk all day puts pressure on disks in your back and can lead to pain in your neck, wrists, elbows, shoulders, and back. Set an alarm to remind you to get up and move for at least a few minutes every hour, and create a workspace that encourages you to sit upright. Add a back pillow or adjust your chair so you can keep your spine and neck straight while sitting.

5. Not Staying Physically Fit

Those who are overweight have more tension on their spine and less range of motion in their joints. Finding a way to incorporate exercise into your daily routine can improve your overall health by building strength, mobility, and flexibility. Even if it’s just going for a walk once a day, staying physically fit is important in keeping your joints pain-free and preventing arthritis down the road. 

South Main Chiropractic Clinic has been serving the High Point, NC, community for nearly two decades. If you have arthritis or are experiencing joint and back pain, their chiropractic team can guide you on a path to wellness. To learn more about what services they offer, visit them online or call (336) 885-5200 to schedule an appointment today.