5 habits that can easily lead to neck and shoulder pain, and muscle stiffness

Neck and shoulder pain is a discomforting condition characterized by soreness in the neck and shoulder area. This condition can originate from very simple daily habits.

1. Incorrect sitting posture:

Regardless of whether you are engaged in manual or mental labor, sitting with improper posture in any job can lead to neck and shoulder pain. Poor sitting posture and overloading the lower back with more weight than it can handle can be the primary culprit for back pain. It may not only generate pressure on the lower back but also on the upper back and shoulders. If the muscles in the neck and shoulder region are weak, they will not be able to support the head, leading to the common slouching position that many people adopt while sitting.

2. Inappropriate exercise routines

There are many exercises that heavily impact the neck, back, and limbs, but they may not manifest outwardly, leaving you unaware. During such exercises, the muscles in these areas may go unnoticed, unlike other muscles, and this can lead to an imbalance, causing stronger muscles to compensate for weaker ones, ultimately resulting in pain.

3. Carrying an uneven or excessively heavy bag

Many bags are designed to be worn on one shoulder, which is not good for the body as they exert pressure on the back, shoulders, and neck. Carrying a bag on one side of the body can cause the spine to tilt to one side.

4. Smoking habits

Excessive smoking certainly has adverse effects on the body because when you smoke, your body receives reduced oxygen supply, affecting muscles, joints, and skin. This makes muscles less healthy and increases the likelihood of degenerative issues.

5. Stress levels

Have you ever felt your muscles tensing up when you are stressed about something? Stress is considered a part of the “fight or flight” response that everyone has. According to scientists, when you’re stressed, your body interprets those emotions as a response to some form of threat, and this can lead to discomfort, acting as a protective mechanism.

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