Exercises to free your neck

Left unchecked, computer neck can cause muscle spasms, compression of nerves or a degeneration of the spinal column. Chronic cases bring stiffness, headaches, work absenteeism, emotional stress - the list is endless.

If you are reading this and thinking "that's me", the majority of "computer neck" issues can be treated by an experienced physiotherapist or osteopath. But if you're looking for relief right now, here are a couple of helpful stretches. With both of these, ensure you are sitting/standing up straight, with your shoulders back and head in a position that feels as if you are giving yourself a double chin.

Side of the neck stretch: Facing forwards, lower your left ear down towards your left shoulder and apply moderate pressure with the left hand on your head until you feel a moderate stretch down the right side of your neck. Hold for one minute, release and repeat on the opposite side.

Back of the neck stretch: Turn your head 45 degrees to the left and look down until you are looking towards the outside of your left knee.