I have Arthritis of the spine with problems of slipped and ruptured discs and it took me a while to get comfortable at my sewing machine. First, make sure that your chair is a good strong supportive one (mine is a wooden high-back chair) and I use a pad/cushion that is designed for people with back issues; they are available most anywhere including Walmart. It is equally important to make sure that the chair is the right height to your sewing machine; not too low or too high. Posture is very important; I pull my chair right up to the table on which I have my sewing machine and make sure that I am sitting with a straight back up against the back of my chair. Stress also can cause issues so stop periodically, take a long slow deep breath, check your posture and completely relax your body, particularly your neck and shoulders as the stress can follow on down through your back. I just try to be aware of my body and treat it right and it has made the world of difference to me. I hope some of this may be helpful to you. So sorry for your discomfort, hopefully you will find the right solution for you. Take care.