Technology: A Real Pain in the Neck

Those work emails in the middle of the night can be a “pain in your neck”:  literally.

Introducing:  “Tech Neck”

Tech Neck, sometimes called Text Neck, is a modern problem that involves poor posture when using technology–phones, tablets and computers.

If you spend more than three hours  hunched over a screen or sitting behind a desk, this blog is for you.

How Tech Neck Happens

Your shoulders and neck are designed to support the weight of your head.  However, when your head tilts down while you type an email, the load on your neck can more than quadruple.  Throw a bad chair into the mix , and it’s like trying to balance a few bowling balls on your neck at once!

How to Correct Your Posture

The best way to combat Tech Neck is to correct your posture:

Step 1: Keep your device at eye level instead of looking down. This may mean that you need to raise or lower your computer monitor as well as adjust the height of your chair.  Ideally, when you look straight ahead, you should be seeing a spot 2-4 inches below the top of the monitor/screen.

Step 2: Make sure your knees are bent at a 90-degree angle when seated and that your feet are planted firmly on the floor in front of you.

Step 3: Give yourself a break. Every half-hour, stand up and move around to loosen your muscles and avoid unnecessary tension. This will help your neck and spine relax, and give your eye muscles a break from the screen.

If you’re struggling with neck pain, we’re here to help. We’ll make sure your spine and neck are in proper alignment with a focused, custom chiropractic adjustment. Call us today to make your appointment.

PS  sitting in the car can be just as bad… Dr Vince can check your car seat at your next appointment.  He’s also available for an “ergonomic checkup” of your home office.