Shoulder and Arm Pain have become very common in the workplace due to us using computers more and more during our daily work day. We have put together a Shoulder and Arm Pain syndrome guide to help identify any problems you may have and how they can be fixed.

Thoracic Outlet Syndrome

What is it?
It is a compression injury to the nervous or blood vessel bundles from narrow passageways at the base of the neck passing under your collarbone and into your arm.

Site/Area of pain
Shoulder and Arm

Type of pain/Symptoms

• The arms and hands feel cool and tire easily. 
• Vague, aching pain in the neck, shoulder, arm, or hand. 
• Overhead activities are particularly difficult. 

Most Common Occupational Related Causes

• Sitting unsupported and leaning forward in chair for prolonged periods 
• Unnecessary repetitive reaching (especially, overhead movements). 
• Insufficient back support from chair forcing neck and spine to slouch as the shoulders follow 
• Typing with your elbows and forearms unsupported and shoulders rolled forward can compress nerves and blood vessels in the armpit. 

Conservative measures of treatment consist of;

• Use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs to ease the pain 
• Physical therapy can help strengthen the muscles surrounding the shoulder so that they are better able to support the collarbone.
• Postural exercises can help you stand and sit straighter, which lessens the pressure on the nerves and blood vessels. 
• If you are overweight, your physician may recommend that a weight loss program. 
• You will need to change your workstation and avoid strenuous activities. 
• In rare instances, surgery may be recommended if conservative treatment fails. 

Ergonomic Suggestions;

• Take regular breaks every 30-40 minutes, avoid prolonged unsupported sitting positions. 
• Use a monitor arm or monitor stand to promote optimal monitor height 
• Make sure all necessary documentation and equipment are within easy reach. 
• In- line Document stand to neutralise neck position and prevent unnecessary head tilting while referring to documents 
• Make sure the chair back is a high back chair to support the spine while seated and not push the shoulders forward. 
• Forearm support to promote forearm and wrist support while seated