Computers and Office work

The computer revolution has radically changed office life. Rather than walking to the copier or stopping in a co-worker's office to chat, you fax, phone and e-mail. The technology does much more while you do less, more people now work longer hours without the small refreshments of whole body movement.

It's amazing to think that a minute action like clicking a mouse can lead to the agonizing, debilitating symptoms of repetitive strain injury (RSI). But it doesn't have to. Wherever your symptoms may be — wrist, forearm, hand, shoulders or back — the source of your problem is most likely the way you manage your entire body. Unnecessary tension, slumping and collapsing, or a combination of the two repeated for long hours eventually lead to pain and injury.

An Alexander Technique teacher helps you sharpen your sensory awareness. He is trained to observe the movement habits that cause strain, and guides you to shift them. By observing the way you sit and perform repeated motions, the teacher helps you see what you're doing and how you can improve it. By learning how to attune to your body's signals and changing your movement pattern, you can avoid worsening symptoms.

Medication or surgery, though sometimes necessary, addresses the symptoms of back pain, shoulder problems, repetitive strain or carpal tunnel syndrome. The Alexander Technique addresses the cause — your movement style — and gives you the ability to change it. The Technique is cost-efficient and non-invasive, with no adverse side effects. With it, you use your body and mind more efficiently, improving your concentration and endurance. That makes you more effective on the job and much more comfortable at the end of the day.