Neck and shoulder pain, throbbing head and tingling fingers can all be caused by frequent use of your laptop computer.

It’s a condition coined as “laptop-itis” by doctors at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and it’s becoming more common as students and business people turn to laptop computers over desktop models.

The doctors say that laptops almost always lead to poor posture that can cause sore muscles or repetitive stress injuries.

Ideally you want to replicate the posture used at an ergonomically correct desktop work station – with your monitor at eye level, 90-degree angles at your elbows, knees and hips, and wrists and elbows supported in a neutral position.

One solution is to link your laptop to a desktop monitor when you’re not mobile. Rather than slumped on the couch, work at a table with an adjustable-height chair.

You want to be able to read the monitor without bending your neck. Take short breaks to do shoulder shrugs or other exercises that relieve muscle strain.

And keep in mind that carrying your laptop and accessories can also cause muscle strain if it creates a heavy load that you carry over one shoulder. It’s best to carry backpacks using proper form, with straps over both shoulders to allow for balanced back support.