How ‘Tech Neck’ Can Lead to Chronic Pain and What You Can Do about It
In today’s digital age, you can do practically anything on your smartphone or laptop – from working and shopping to catching up with friends and entertainment. However, the overuse of electronic devices has given rise to a new concern – “Tech Neck.”
Tech Neck
It is a term used to describe the pain and stiffness that arise from consistently looking down at your devices, and it can have detrimental effects on your health and wellness. This article will explore the causes and consequences of Tech Neck and provide tips on how to prevent and treat it.
The Impact of Tech Neck on Your Health
If you’ve ever experienced soreness or stiffness in your neck, shoulders, or upper back, you may have “Tech Neck.” Prolonged use of electronic devices leads to poor posture and overuse of neck muscles.
A study of 500 people discovered that extensive screen time could lead to intensifying and prolonged neck pain.
Tech Neck can also cause numbness or tingling in your hands and headaches, and it can even lead to posture problems. Over time, continually stretching your neck forward to look at a screen can shorten chest muscles and lengthen neck muscles, leading to an increase in spinal pressure in your neck. This can disrupt the natural curve of your spine and lead to chronic misalignment of the spine in severe cases.
How to Fix Your Tech Neck
There are several stretches and exercises that you can do to correct and prevent Tech Neck.
Aware of Your Posture
First, remember to be aware of your posture throughout the day. Whether you are working at your desk, texting on your phone, or scrolling on your tablet, make sure to keep your spine straight and avoid leaning your head forward. The ideal position is to hold your head over your spine to maintain a straight line from the top of your head to your tailbone.
Limit your Screen Time
Secondly, limit your screen time as much as possible. Spend time away from your computer and engage in other activities. Even a brief break and rest from electronic devices can work wonders.
Simple Stretches
Thirdly, practice some simple stretches to ease neck and shoulder tension. Do chin tucks, hand-to-ear stretches, and hands-to-forehead stretches regularly. They can all help strengthen the muscles in your neck and back, relieve stress and improve your posture. While doing this, keep your spine straight.
Exercise Regularly
Fourthly, be sure to exercise regularly. Exercise can help keep your muscles strong and flexible, which can help prevent tension and pain in your neck and shoulders.
Here is a guide of DO’S & DON’T’S by Justin Agustin
In conclusion, Tech Neck is a common problem associated with an overly digital lifestyle. However, by being mindful of your posture, limiting your screen time, doing regular stretches and exercising, you can alleviate these symptoms and avoid long-term complications. This article highlights the importance of taking care of your body and to watch out for the early signs of Tech Neck.
References : justinagustin
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