The average American spends between 6-10 hours in front of technology per day. And now in the age of Zoom, everything, even our social time, can be restricted to the screen. While the latest and greatest tech can be pretty darn cool, it also has its downside. And a big one is TECH NECK.
What the heck is Tech Neck?
Tech neck is a type of reversed neck position caused by the repetitive slouched posture during our technology time. It can frequently be painful because you bend your neck forward and often roll your shoulders towards the device, leading to stiffness and soreness of the neck muscles and other surrounding tissue.
This is especially true for developing spines in children and young adults. Over time, if Tech Neck is left uncorrected, this abnormal spinal posture can become permanent along with the string of health challenges associated with it.
Neck and shoulder soreness are only the tip of the iceberg for symptoms of tech neck. It’s also associated with headaches that originate from the back of the head or behind the eyes, spinal degeneration which is a type of arthritis, decreased lung function, heart disease, increased stress hormones, anxiety, and poor cognitive performance.
How to avoid tech neck challenges?
Now that you know what tech neck is and how it can impact your health, the next question is – how can you avoid it? Here are 5 things you can do to help you and your children create better posture habits and avoid the challenges that come with tech neck.
Make Stretching & Strengthening Your Neck a Daily Priority
There are several stretches that are key to counteracting the poor posture our screens can induce. Check out the stretching library on our website for videos explaining how to do the door jamb, penguin, and hummingbird stretches. A few minutes a day can make a big difference for your health.
Be Mindful of Your Posture
Write yourself a note or set a reminder in your phone, whatever you have to do to remember to be conscious of how you are sitting throughout the day and the position that you are holding your shoulders, neck, and head; especially when you are staring at a screen.
Consider Alternative Seating
Try something new like a yoga ball or a more structured chair, to keep you from slouching. Another great option is a standing desk to stay loose and moving instead of one standard position. For kids (and adults), screen time can be done on the floor on your belly. This requires you to lift the head against gravity and strengthen those much needed neck and upper back muscles.
Take Frequent Breaks
Remove yourself from your screen and move around – even if it’s just for a few minutes. You can try setting a timer to remind yourself that it’s time to add motion into your day. This would be a great time to do some of the stretches we mentioned earlier.
Check in With Your Chiropractor
The best way to make sure that your cervical curve stays in healthy shape is to check in with your chiropractor.
And when you do, think about bringing your children with you. They are growing up with technology that we never had and that means more screen time at a younger age. Seeing people regain their cervical curve through specific chiropractic care is great, but seeing kids develop a healthy curve from the start is even better!
Not a Current Patient?
Is Guidance, Support, and Accountability What’s Missing from Your Wellness Journey?
It’s time you found out! Schedule your Complimentary 15-minute Phone Consultation to learn more about Salutogenic options and discuss how it could help pave your way to optimal health.
