By placing your tablet or computer on a tray table or desk propped up at an angle toward eye level may ease neck strain and discomfort.

FORBES: Five Tips to Reduce Neck and Shoulder Pain When Using a Tablet or Computer

According to Dr. Jack Dennerlein, a professor of ergonomics at the Harvard School for Public Health, taking frequent breaks from the tablet or computer to stretch your neck muscles or change position is the easiest way to reduce neck discomfort or strain.

FORBES: Five Tips to Reduce Neck and Shoulder Pain When Using a Tablet or Computer

As most of us spend more time using tablet devices such as an ipad or laptop computers, the risk for developing neck pain and muscle strain in the upper shoulders increases.

FORBES: Five Tips to Reduce Neck and Shoulder Pain When Using a Tablet or Computer

"It's important that your desk chair be at the proper height to reduce strain on your neck and back, " he says.

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But just as striking for me has been the experience of sitting no more than a metre and a half away from Oscar Pistorius - able to hear his breathing patterns, his sobs, muttered prayers, and to see the muscles strain on his neck as he stares forward, with the concentration you would expect from someone braced for the start of an Olympic final.

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Holding the tablet or computer too low, especially on your lap if you are sitting on your bed or a couch, can flex your neck forward leading to potential muscle strain.

FORBES: Five Tips to Reduce Neck and Shoulder Pain When Using a Tablet or Computer