What Is Tech Neck?
Causes, Symptoms, and Chiropractic Solutions
With so much of our lives spent in front of screens, it’s no surprise that more people are experiencing something called tech neck. That stiff, sore feeling in your neck and shoulders after a long day of scrolling, typing, or sitting in meetings on your computer. But what exactly is tech neck, and how can we stop it before it becomes a chronic issue?
What is Tech Neck?
Tech neck, also known as forward head posture, happens when your head positioning is too far forward in front of your shoulders. Instead of your ears aligning over your shoulders (as they should in good posture), the head juts out, putting extra strain on your neck and upper back. Common causes of tech neck might include:
- Looking down at phones and tablets for long periods
- Poor desk ergonomics
- Slouching while sitting or standing
- Lack of posture awareness
What impacts can Tech Neck have?
For every inch your head moves forward, your neck has to support up to more load from the weight of your head (which weighs about 10-12 pounds, on average). Imagine holding a 10-pound dumbbell, straight up and down from the bottom of the dumbbell. Then, imagine tipping that dumbbell forward even just one inch. The effective weight of that dumbbell just got heavier, simply due to its positioning. That same phenomenon happens with your head positioning, possibly resulting in the following signs and symptoms:
- Neck stiffness
- Upper back pain
- Headaches
- Muscle fatigue and imbalance
- Accelerated spinal disc degeneration
- Nerve compression
- Decreased lung capacity and energy
The longer it goes undetected and untreated, the harder it becomes to reverse. The good news? Tech neck can be treated through corrective chiropractic care like Chiropractic Biophysics, which we use at Chiropractic Health and Wellness. Our approach involves a detailed examination and evaluation including a postural assessment as well as spinal X-rays, when appropriate, to have an exact understanding of the postural alignment of the spine. Once identified, the treatment we offer involves specific mirror-image exercises, chiropractic adjustments, and mirror-image spinal traction to restore proper curvature and alignment to the neck. We’ll also help you create a personalized plan for at home that includes stretches, strengthening, and ergonomic advice. So, what can you do in the meantime?
How can I try to Prevent or Improve Tech Neck?
Don’t wait until tech neck turns into chronic pain. With a few small daily changes and the correct plan, you can protect your posture and feel better every day.
- Raise Your Devices: Keep your screen at eye level. Use a laptop stand or stack books if needed.
- Keyboard Placement: Your elbows should be at 90 degrees when using your keyboard. This helps to make sure that your wrist, elbow, and shoulders are all in relaxed and neutral positions throughout your workday.
- Take Regular Breaks: Move every 30–60 minutes. Set reminders to stretch or stand.
Schedule Your Tech Neck Evaluation Today
If tech neck is affecting your comfort or daily routine, now is the perfect time to take action. Schedule a thorough postural evaluation at Chiropractic Health and Wellness and get clarity on what’s driving your symptoms. Reach out today to book your appointment and begin your path toward lasting relief and better alignment.
