Back and neck pain can sneak up on you—but sometimes the real culprit isn’t an injury or a medical condition. Instead, it’s the little things you do every day without even realizing it. From how you sit at your desk to the way you sleep at night, everyday habits can either support or strain your spine.

At California Sports & Spine Institute (CSSI), Dr. Maxim Moradian and his team help patients not only treat pain but also understand the lifestyle factors that may be making it worse.

Common Habits That Contribute to Back and Neck Pain

1. Poor Posture at Work 

Slouching over a computer or craning your neck at your phone puts extra pressure on your spine. Over time, this leads to stiffness, pain, and even long-term damage.

Fix it: Keep screens at eye level, sit with your feet flat on the ground, and use a chair that supports your lower back.

2. Carrying Heavy Bags 

Backpacks, purses, and shoulder bags can create uneven weight distribution, straining your shoulders and spine.

Fix it: Use a backpack with two straps or lighten your load. Switch sides often to avoid overuse of one shoulder.

3. Poor Sleep Positions 

Sleeping on your stomach twists the spine and strains your neck.

Fix it: Sleep on your back or side with a supportive pillow that keeps your spine aligned.

4. Skipping Exercise 

Weak core and back muscles leave your spine without the support it needs.

Fix it: Incorporate regular low-impact exercise like walking, swimming, or yoga to strengthen muscles and improve flexibility.

5. Sitting for Too Long 

Remaining seated for hours reduces circulation and increases stiffness in the spine.

Fix it: Take breaks every 30–60 minutes to stand, stretch, or walk. Even a quick stretch makes a difference.

6. Ignoring Stress 

Stress doesn’t just affect your mind—it creates tension in your neck and shoulders, worsening pain.

Fix it: Practice deep breathing, meditation, or gentle stretches to release muscle tension.

Why Small Changes Matter

These habits might seem minor, but over time they can create a cycle of chronic pain. The good news? By becoming more mindful of your posture, movement, and daily routines, you can protect your spine and reduce discomfort.

Find Lasting Relief With Expert Care

If you’ve made lifestyle changes but are still struggling with persistent back or neck pain, it may be time to seek expert help. At California Sports & Spine Institute, Dr. Maxim Moradian and his team provide advanced diagnostic tools and personalized treatments to address pain at its source.

We proudly serve patients at three convenient locations:

📍 Arcadia – 51 N. 5th Ave Suite B, Arcadia, CA 91006

📍 Glendale – 317 S Brand Blvd Suite A-104, Glendale, CA 91204

📍 Palmdale – 41210 11th Street West, Suite K, Palmdale, CA 93551

Call us today at (818) 338-6860 or (626) 460-1096 to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward lasting relief.