I Fixed my Neck and Shoulder Pain. Here's How.

Those of you who read my newsletter and blog know that I’ve been suffering from art-related pains the past few months. In February, I did some painting in a hotel room in Miami, and I haven’t been the same since. Until now. Now I’m feeling 100%. And I’m amazed at how quickly I’ve resolved the pain. I want to spread my message to artists around the world, because no one should have to go through what I went through. It was awful.

Just to give you some context - the neck and shoulder pain I was suffering from was actually on my left side. Weird, because I’m right handed. The only thing I can figure is that I was using my left arm to support my right side while I painted. If I painted at my desk for 30 minutes or more, I would barely be able to turn my neck after. And that would last indefinitely until I did something to work it out. The pain would shoot down into my trap and shoulder blade. For weeks, I couldn’t sleep on my side, because the pain was so uncomfortable.

My new drafting table

Getting to the Root of the Problem

In January, I began to suspect it was time for me to buy a drafting table. At first, I wasn’t sure how much it would help. It felt like a risky investment, because I’d never used one before. And it was tough finding a table that suited my needs. I use a water cup, so I needed a split table configuration to set my supplies on. Also, the ceilings in my studio are low, so I needed a desk height table. I also wanted the tabletop made of a material that could withstand moisture, since I use gouache (a water-based paint). I was dragging my feet for a while, trying to decide on the best option. Then, I got desperate.

Last month, I had a commercial illustration project and it just about killed me. Ryan forced me to pull the trigger. Just the idea that it could help me was enough. I decided on this table and it has CHANGED ME. I can paint for hours now pain-free. I don’t feel anything because I’m no longer hunching over. I didn’t realize just how magical a drafting table would be. I’m NEVER going back to painting at a flat desk. I believe all illustrators need a table like this.

Managing the Symptoms

Before I got to the root of the problem. I developed a little routine to undo the daily damage painting caused. It’s nice to know I still have these tricks up my sleeve if I ever start to experience pain again.

The most effective form of treatment was the Theraball. I mentioned this as a favorite in my March newsletter. Before I got the drafting table, this was the only thing that made a huge difference. My mom’s chiropractor recommended this to her, so she brought it over for me to use. Instantly, I was hooked. I ordered one the next day. I would put this behind my neck and shoulder while we watched TV. My mom likes to use it on her lower back while she drives in the car. It’s really easy to use on yourself, since you can just lay on it. 15-30 minutes of using this ball, and I’m 90% better.

Another effective form of treatment was heat. I’ve used all kinds of heating pads over the years, and the Dreamtime microwaveable heating pads are my favorite. They seem to hold up the best too. I would put this on immediately after every painting session, and I would get around 50% mobility back in my neck.

I also really recommend yoga and massages. I’ve practiced yoga for years to reverse the damage I cause my body every day sitting. While this wasn’t enough on its own, it worked wonders in conjunction with heat and the Theraball. A couple of downward dogs and neck rolls would do wonders. For months, my favorite yoga videos on Youtube were the ones that focused on the neck, shoulders, and upper back. As far as massages go, I love a deep tissue massage to help with pain. I always explain to the massage therapist what I do for a living and where it hurts most, so they know exactly what to focus on. This helped me a lot when the pain was at its worst.

Lastly, I can’t say enough good things about icy hot, or anything with menthol in it. On my worst days, this was the only thing that helped me sleep.

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What do you do to manage the pain that comes with creating? Any tips could save lives!