Telephone

Talking on the telephone can be a huge pain in the neck… literally. In fact, talking on the telephone, especially for extended periods of time and while typing or otherwise multi-tasking, can lead to shoulder and neck problems.

Here are some tips to ensure that your time spent on the telephone is less painful:

Do not place the telephone between your head and shoulder – a padded phone rest can help you rest the phone on your shoulder without having to cock your head so much. Nonetheless, it is best to avoid this position – it can throw your neck out of alignment.
Use a speaker phone – if you are using a speaker phone, you can multi-task while speaking on the telephone.
Use a headset – like a speaker phone, a headset allows you to take notes, look up information on the Internet, etc., while speaking on the phone. The added benefit of a headset is that sound reception is generally better, and the phone conversation can be at a more personal level – not everyone will be able to hear both sides of the conversation.
Keep your phone close – if you use the phone a lot, it is very beneficial to keep it close to you so that you don’t need to strain yourself to reach for it, every time it rings.
Keep writing materials (for messages) close – again, if you have everything that you need on hand, you will not have to worry about straining to reach for them while on the phone.
Do not lean forward – it is common for people to lean forward in a chair while taking a call. Unfortunately, this position can put pressure on the spine. Keep a good posture while talking on the phone, especially if typing at the same time.
Hide the phone cord – a loose phone cord can be a tripping hazard.
Keep a light grip – if holding the handset of a phone, there is no need to keep a death-grip on it. Keep your hand loose and comfortable.
Keep conversations short – this is most important if you are not using a headset or speaker phone. Besides, long conversations can be stressful.

Consider the ergonomics of telephone usage next time you here your phone ring. Telephone ergonomics can help reduce that pain in your neck.