How to Prevent Neck Pain While Throwing Pottery
3 Simple Ways to Ease Neck & Shoulder Strain at the Wheel
Our heads weigh about 10–12 pounds — manageable when stacked right over our spine, a lot more work for our neck and shoulders when we drift forward chasing the details of whatever we're making. Here are 3 ways to minimize head and neck strain:
Bring the work to you. Instead of hunching down to your clay, raise it closer to eye level — whatever that takes in your setup. Less forward lean, less strain, less "why does my neck hurt at 4pm" mystery.
Try a mirror at the wheel. Propping an adjustable mirror (a makeup mirror works great!) across from you lets you check the profile of what you're throwing without repeatedly tilting your head to see.
Notice, reset, repeat. Check in with your head and neck position while you work. Change positions, move gently, take breaks before tension builds — not because you're doing anything wrong, just because bodies like a little variety
Be aware, vary your process, and be kind to your body. Not about perfect posture 100% of the time — just a little more awareness as we go.