Chiropractic Solutions for Tech Neck
Tech neck syndrome, or text neck, is a common problem caused by poor electronic device posture. It results in chronic neck or shoulder pain from prolonged periods of looking down at screens. The human head weighs between 10 and 12 pounds in a neutral position. However, tilting forward becomes significantly heavier, increasing neck and spine strain. This prolonged stress can lead to musculoskeletal fatigue and pressure on the nerve supply in the neck, potentially causing referred pain in the arms and hands [1].
Prolonged tech neck posture strains shoulders, neck, and back muscles, pressuring the spine. This can cause stiffness, soreness, and reduced mobility in the neck and shoulders, potentially leading to headaches and other pain issues. Additionally, tech neck may contribute to headaches, lower back pain, and even temporomandibular joint pain [2].
The Impact of Technology on Neck Health
Excessive smartphone use, averaging over three hours daily with 58 checks [1], significantly impacts neck health. Poor posture while using devices contributes to increased neck pain and related issues.
When individuals look down at their screens, they tend to bend their necks forward, causing the head to drift out of its natural alignment. This position places additional stress on the cervical spine, intervertebral discs, and surrounding muscles. The human head weighs 10-12 pounds in a neutral position, but bending it forward at a 45-degree angle can increase the force on the neck to nearly 50 pounds [2]. Prolonged use of devices can cause “tech neck,” leading to chronic pain and stiffness. Poor posture strains bones, nerves, and muscles, potentially causing muscle stiffness, joint inflammation, and serious spinal issues like herniated discs.
Chiropractic Approaches to Tech Neck
Chiropractic care offers effective solutions for addressing neck pain from phone use, commonly known as tech neck. Chiropractors utilize a range of techniques to realign the spine, relieve muscle tension, and enhance overall body mechanics. They can correct misalignments in the spine through spinal adjustments, known as subluxations, which significantly impact posture and contribute to tech neck symptoms.
These adjustments are complemented by proper ergonomics and body mechanics advice to prevent future postural issues. Chiropractors often incorporate soft tissue therapy, stretching exercises, and strength training to address the muscular imbalances associated with tech neck. They focus on relaxing overused muscles and strengthening those that support good posture, particularly the core muscles.
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For Your Health,
Dr. Scott Van Dam
