Pain In The Neck...

[Former_Member]

Hey, everybody...long time, no write! I know we are all busy getting ready for the holidays, but I was wondering if we can learn from each other on this one:

I have been an artist for years - which is good and can be bad, especially when bad habits are involved. Even though I have a drafting table, I still prefer looking down when doing my PaperCut Art. As a result, my neck KILLS!

Can you tell me what you do to keep your necks from hurting?? I hope to hear from you soon...

Blessings,

Debra Bee

[jerise]

Hey, Debra!

I had the worst arm and neck pain for a long time, and even thought I was going to have to give papercutting a break-- I finally got so fed up that I got one of those "kneeling" office chairs--I got it for $99 (it's even less now!) from BizChair.com , and it's been PERFECT. I can't even describe how nice it is not to have to worry about my aching neck and back anymore! Here's the one I chose--but anything that aligns your spine better (I used to twist at my seat, also, which exacerbated the pain) is probably going to work.

http://www.bizchair.com/wl-sb-210-gg.html

[jerise]

You do have to stand up every 20-30 min or so--just as with any chair, though!

[Former_Member]

Hello, Jerise! Great to hear from you, and thank you for the tip! I was also thinking of maybe using one of those pads that you heat in the microwave and applying it to my neck...

Let me know if I can ever help you sometime!

[Former_Member]

Keep the tips coming....I'd love to hear more ideas!

[jerise]

Sure--and nice to "see" you, Debra!

Also, you can't overestimate how important it is to stand up, stretch, and stretch out your hand and arm every once in a while. And to sit straight. :)