Bad Posture While Using Your Device Can Injure Your Neck
Do you have tension in your neck, shoulders, or even in your upper back? If so, you might be suffering from “Tech Neck”.
Though it’s not an official medical diagnosis, “Tech Neck” is a term for a condition that can be caused by the way many people hold their head while using cell phones and mobile devices. It’s pain caused by repetitive stress to the muscles and tissue surrounding the cervical spine.
Tech Neck symptoms are usually mild in the initial phases and get worse as the condition – and the behaviors causing it – advances. The first symptoms can include an aching discomfort in the lower neck, shoulders, and upper back. If left untreated, it can advance to:
- Sharp, intense pain localized in one spot
- Headaches
- Reduced mobility the neck, upper back, and shoulders
- Increased pain when tilting the head forward and looking down to text
- Jaw pain due to misalignment of the cervical spine
- Tingling pain and numbness in the arms and hands, related to spinal nerve irritation and inflammation
What Does The Weight Of My Head Have To Do With Tech Neck?
The average adult head weighs 10-12 pounds, which is supported by the bones, muscles, and tendons of the neck. But when you tilt your head forward and look down – the common posture during texting or reading on your cell phone – the weight of your head can place 50-60 pounds of additional force on the neck.
The upper spine isn’t designed to withstand that type of prolonged posture. The strain can quickly cause the symptoms associated with Tech Neck.
Holding your phone or tablet at eye level transfers the work away from your neck. A stand or platform are also excellent options if you’re sitting. Voice recognition technology can also stress on your back and neck.
Stretching It Out
Along with correct posture, stretches can make a big difference. Gentle neck stretches include moving your right ear towards your right shoulder. Then, with your right hand, gently pull your head closer to your shoulder. You should feel a stretch along the left side of your neck. Repeat on the opposite side. Rolling your head from side to side and chin tuck exercises can also help.
If you have Tech Neck, relieving symptoms and correcting bad posture is important. It can lead to pain so bad that your neck’s range of motion is seriously compromised. This is proven to lead to many problems, including car accidents. Important insurance coverage from ASBA can help cover expenses standard medical plans might not, such as ambulance, hospital costs, intensive care, physical therapy, family lodging and transportation, and more. Learn more by requesting a FREE Benefits Review.
Source: https://www.elle.com/beauty/health-fitness/how-to/a34224/exercises-to-treat-tech-neck/
