I just launched my third book in “The Chronicles of Jonathan Steel” last week. The book launch was plagued by bad weather with a threat of freezing rain. Then, I got up Monday morning with a pain under my right shoulder blade that brought me to my knees. All week, it has progressed and I KNOW exactly what it is.
Four years ago, I had similar symptoms and found out I had a herniated disc in my neck. These symptoms were far too similar. I had surgery at that time and my neurosurgeon told me something very interesting. He said that soon we would have an epidemic of herniated discs in the neck. Why? Because we live in a world of digital devices. He said the constant movement of our head and neck as we text, type, read on digital devices, and study our computer screens produces weakening of the discs.
So, here I am four years later and I found out this morning I have a herniated disc at the level above my surgery — very common occurrence unfortunately. Usually it happens at about 8 years after surgery, but I have been writing away on my blog and on my books and texting and reading on my iPad, etc. Now, I am looking at repeat surgery and I covet the prayers of my fellow authors.
This blog will be short. I cannot type for very long and I never finished setting up Dragon dictation! But, I will shortly!
So, my message today from this blog is simple. Be aware of the dangers of our digital age. As authors, we spend a LOT of time in front of our computers. Study the best ergonomic solutions for keyboards, desks, chairs, etc. And, if you have any tips on keeping a healthy lifestyle as an author, share them in today’s comments.
I’m off to see the neurosurgeon! I’ll bring him a signed copy of “The 11th Demon: The Ark of Chaos”!
4 comments:
Wow that sounds painful. Hope it's sorted soon...
I have neck issues too, which is why I take as many breaks away from the computer as possible. One of my old high school friends advised me to raise the level of my monitor to prevent having to look down at the screen. That helps. I also hang upside down on an inversion table, and I use different electric massagers to help work out the kinks. I also wrote a blog post here not long ago on pain management for people who sit at a desk all day. Here's a link: http://justthewritecharisma.blogspot.com/2013/10/pain-management-for-writers-and-other.html
My thoughts are with you, Bruce. Thanks for sharing!
Hope all went well with your visit to the doctor, Bruce. And thanks for the reminder about taking care of ourselves, even though we think sitting in front of the computer all day is not stressful on the body. Merry Christmas to you and your family.
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