Chiropractors: BlackBerry can be a pain in the neck

Yes, literally.

According to a quick note in the New York Post, the American Chiropractic Association attests that an increasing number of BlackBerry users are showing up at chiropractor's offices with neck and upper back pain.

I was thinking about why that might be. My tentative conclusion: stooping over to read or respond to your BlackBerry email.

I know I do this. Seldom do I hold my BlackBerry at eye level. I'm usually looking down on it- hence the risk to neck and upper back.

Back on March 19, these BlackBerry user tips were posted on the American Chiropractic Association's website:

• Practice good posture when using any handheld device. Sit in a chair that provides solid back support and keep feet comfortably on the floor.
• Spend 10 minutes or less with your head tilted down looking at the device, and when possible hold the gadget at eye level.
• When at home or in the office, connect the device to your keyboard or computer.
• Take frequent breaks and alternate activities that use different muscle groups.
• Watch for warning signs of overuse such as headaches, fatigue or muscle pain.

Now that we are almost in summer and the glare-producing sun is nearly directly overhead, I'd bet we're seeing more "looking down at your BlackBerry" issues.

Fortunately I haven't felt the pain yet. Doesn't mean I can't feel yours.