July 19, 2023

10 Jobs That Can Cause Neck Discomfort - Pain Free Aussies

In this hectic life schedule, discomfort in the neck is a common problem.

It’s affecting individuals in a variety of professions such as computer workers, construction workers, truck, and taxi drivers, etc.

These are some of the jobs that are related to a maximum chance of neck discomfort due to the nature of the work.

Factors like seating in the same position, heavy lifting, and repetitive motion can also contribute to neck discomfort in these professions.

In this article, we’re going to discuss some popular jobs that trigger neck discomfort.

10 Jobs that are triggering Neck Discomfort 

In today’s era, the majority of job professions are required to sit for extended periods of time which unfortunately lead to severe neck discomfort.

Let's look at these professions one by one. 

1. Computer Work

Computer work is one of the most common occupations that can cause neck discomfort. Sitting at a desk for extended periods of time and looking at a computer screen can cause strain on the neck muscles and contribute to poor posture.

There are several ways in which computer work can be linked to neck discomfort:

  1. Poor posture: When using a computer, many people tend to hunch forward or crane their necks forward to get closer to the screen. This can put a strain on the neck muscles and lead to discomfort.
  2. Repetitive strain: People who use a computer for long hours may perform repetitive motions with their arms, hands, and fingers, which can lead to strain and tension in the neck muscles.
  3. Eye strain: When staring at a computer screen for long periods, people may experience eye strain and fatigue, which can cause them to hold their head in an awkward position, leading to neck discomfort.
  4. Lack of movement: Sitting in one position for long periods can cause stiffness in the neck and shoulder muscles.

To prevent neck discomfort from computer work, it's important to maintain good posture, take frequent breaks to stretch and move, adjust the computer screen to an appropriate height and distance, and perform exercises to strengthen the neck and shoulder muscles.

2. Writing

Writing is another one of the most high-risk jobs for neck discomfort that can cause due to prolonged periods of sitting and maintaining a fixed posture.

Whether it's writing on a computer, a tablet, or a piece of paper, individuals in this profession often spend long hours hunched over their work, which can lead to muscle strain and tension in the neck and shoulders.

3. Dentistry

Dentistry is a physically demanding profession that requires dentists to maintain a fixed posture while performing dental procedures.

The nature of the work, which involves leaning over patients for extended periods of time, can place significant strain on the neck and back muscles.

In addition to poor posture, the use of heavy dental equipment can contribute to the development of neck discomfort. Neck discomfort can lead to decreased productivity and quality of life. 

4. Truck & Taxi Driving

Truck and taxi driving are occupations that also require long hours of sitting, which can cause strain on the neck and back muscles.

The nature of the work, which involves driving for extended periods of time, can contribute to poor posture and a fixed position of the neck and shoulders.

The vibrations and jolts associated with driving can also worsen existing neck discomfort or lead to its development.

Also Read: 5 Remarkable Benefits of Using A Neck Pillow

5. Retail 

Retail is another job profession that can contribute to neck discomfort due to prolonged periods of standing or walking.

Retail employees may also spend significant time looking down or leaning over to stock shelves or assisting customers, which can place strain on the neck muscles.

Additionally, lifting and carrying heavy boxes or merchandise can contribute to neck discomfort.

6. Nursing Work

Nursing work is physically demanding and can involve prolonged periods of standing, lifting, and supporting patients, which can place significant strain on the neck and back muscles.

The nature of the work requires nurses to maintain a fixed posture while performing tasks, such as administering medications, taking vital signs, or providing patient care.

The use of heavy equipment, such as IV pumps, can also contribute to the development of neck discomfort.

7.  Loading Or Stocking

Loading or stocking is another occupation that can cause neck discomfort due to the repetitive motion of lifting, carrying, and stacking heavy boxes or merchandise.

The nature of the work requires employees to spend extended periods of time bending, reaching and twisting, which can place significant strain on the neck and back muscles. The use of improper lifting techniques or equipment can also contribute to the development of neck discomfort.

8.  Painting

Painting is a physically demanding occupation that can cause neck discomfort due to prolonged periods of looking up or down while performing tasks.

The nature of the work requires painters to spend significant time standing on ladders or scaffolding, looking up to paint ceilings or down to paint floors, which can place strain on the neck muscles.

The use of heavy painting equipment can also contribute to the development of neck discomfort.

9. Construction Work

Construction work is a physically demanding occupation that can cause neck discomfort due to the repetitive and heavy lifting, carrying, and moving of materials and equipment.

The nature of the work requires employees to maintain a fixed posture while performing tasks, such as drilling, hammering, or sawing.

The use of heavy machinery and tools can also contribute to the development of neck discomfort.

10. Stock Trading

Among the jobs that are causing neck discomfort, stock trading is one that is frequently associated with long hours of sitting in front of a computer screen and making trades.

Stock traders often spend long periods of time analyzing the stock market and making strategic decisions on behalf of their clients or themselves. This can lead to poor posture and hence strain in neck muscles. 

Things to Use During Neck Discomfort

One of the most effective tools for managing neck discomfort is a good-quality neck pillow. These specialized pillows are designed to support the head and neck in a comfortable and relaxing position, helping to relieve pressure on the spine.

So neck pillow can be considered the top priority if you are suffering from severe neck discomfort.

Neck Pillows: Neck pillows are specifically a U-shaped like structure that is specifically designed for neck support purposes and during long driving.

Neck pillows are made up of memory foam that conforms to the shape of the head & neck.

Neck Massagers: Want to relieve tension and discomfort in the neck? Then neck massagers help a lot. Massagers help applies pressure to specific points of the body to relax muscles.

How to Avoid Neck Discomfort At Work?

Well, avoiding neck discomfort at work is a quite challenging task but there are some points listed below that can definitely help you to prevent neck discomfort. 

  • Use a pillow, if you’re doing a sitting job on a chair
  • Avoid sitting in the same position for long hours.
  • Take breaks in between your work.

Note: Don’t forget to consult a professional

Conclusion

Neck discomfort can be quite uncomfortable and limit our daily activities. It might happen as a result of excessive screen time, bad posture, improper stretching during exercise, etc. To deal with this issue, one must take the advice of a professional before trying anything.