Any tips to help ease back and neck strain while stitching?

dmcjms

I have shoulder/neck trouble and long hours of cross stitching only makes it worse. My physical therapist says to stop stitching altogether -- as if! -- but I wonder if anyone knows of a brace of frame that may help alleviate the problem? Anyone else have this issue?

Tinggles

I usually have 1 or 2 pillows behind me so it forces me to sit straight while I am crafting... it seems to help.  Also get up and move around every 20-30 minutes.  Hope this helps!

Braenn

Its important to take breaks. I also use pillows and its really nice and cozy :)

killertortle

I usually switch from sitting down to laying on my stomach with a pillow under my chest. It helps stretch out my back. Of course, if you are outside of your home, you probably cant do that.

Xanatos

I usually take a short break to stretch my arms and fingers

Lauruks

I googled neck stretching exercises and try to do some of them when neck starts to hurt.

hdtrike

Besides using extra pillows behind my back while stitching, I also utilize my heating pad from time to time.  It really helps with my neck and shoulders while stitching.

KnittingAngel

i can get the same thing with knitting. i use one of 2 things one of those beanbag pillows that you can put in the microwave or a gel pack that can be put in the microwave. you must remember to stretch periodically. i know you can loose time while doing something you love.

LucyLocket

Lauruks and KnittingAngel give good advice; every 1/2 you must change position and do exercises to stretch your back and rotate your shoulder muscles. This also helps remove tension in both  areas..............:D

siennaX

Agreed.  Getting up every 30 minutes or so to stretch the legs and neck helps a lot.  When I stitch without having a pillow behind me, I can definitely feel a strain in my back and shoulders.  Hope you find something that works for you.