Chiropractic Tips to Reverse Tech Neck
By Sara Butler
There's no question that technology has improved people's lives. Look at you -- you're reading an online blog about how to improve your health right this minute. And that's in addition to all those funny cat videos you can view on YouTube. Yep, technology is quite amazing, but it does come at a price. The chiropractors at The Joint Chiropractic are at the forefront of one of the drawbacks of technology, a phenomenon called tech neck. Here's what you need to know about tech neck and what you can do to prevent it -- while still enjoying those cat videos.
Symptoms of Tech Neck
Do you have tech neck? Well, if you utilize a lot of technology in your daily life, then you certainly might. The symptoms of tech neck include:
- Headaches that get worse when using your computer or handheld device
- Pain and tightness in the shoulders
- Sharp or nagging pain in the shoulders or neck at the end of the day
- Upper back or neck pain when using your device
Slouching
One issue that leads to tech neck is the slouching people tend to do while on their handheld electronics. Poor posture combined with poor ergonomics is a sure-fire way to develop tech neck. After all, when you're sitting in one position for a long period of time, your body will become used to it and even if your posture is wrong, it can easily become your body's new normal. This can make you more susceptible to injuries when you're not using technology simply because your body is used to holding your body wrong.
To fix this, make sure you use technology with good posture. Set up your office space to be ergonomically correct so you don't have to look down at your computer screen. Also, make sure your chair is supportive and at the right height. When you're on your phone, hold it out in front of you instead of looking down and make sure no matter what kind of technology you use that you take frequent breaks. At least one small break per hour is what is recommended by the chiropractors at The Joint.
Try Hands-Free
If you spend a lot of time on the phone each day, then consider investing in a hands-free device. This can keep you from tilting your neck while you look at the computer screen. Plus, it saves you from needing to constantly look down at your phone in order to check texts or email when you're on the go.
Technology is a wonderful thing, but don't let it impact your health!
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in San Jose, Calif.