Expert: Dr. Paul Newhart - 2/19/2008

Question
Hi i have neck pain from sitting in my office chair all day long. I am looking into getting an ergonomic chair but I am wondering if the ball chairs are as good as the normal ergonomic chairs. Just encase you are not familiar with the ball chair it is the exercise type ball. I just want to make sure my back is lined up right and I dont want neck pain anymore. Thank you so much for your help.

Answer
Sitting in and of itself presents your body with a whole host of problems.  The ball chair does seem like a good idea, but, how long will it last, how much fatigue will you get from holding your posture?  One thing that you can try are exercises that stretch the Psoas/Iliopsoas muslces.  You may notice a great decrease after starting them.