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Rebecca Seligson, Physical Therapist Assistant, Mount Nittany Health Fit for Play, shares some helpful tips on how to reduce symptoms of this new ailment.
Technology has revolutionized our lives in many ways, but it has also brought its own set of problems.
One of the most common of these is called “tech neck,” which describes a feeling of pain or strain in the back of the neck and upper back caused by prolonged use of electronics such as smartphones and laptops. This condition is becoming increasingly common and affects people of all ages and we must take steps to prevent and decrease the number of people affected by “tech neck.” Rebecca Seligson, Physical Therapist Assistant, Mount Nittany Health Fit for Play, shares some helpful tips on how to reduce symptoms of this new ailment.
The first step in reducing symptoms of “tech neck” is to pay attention to your posture while using electronics. Keep electronics at eye level, ensure you aren’t looking down for prolonged periods of time, and keep your shoulders in a relaxed position. You can reduce the strain on your neck and upper back by avoiding bad posture, such as slouching, hunching forward, or interacting with devices below natural eye level.
Another important factor is taking regular breaks from using your device. This can mean taking a few minutes to stretch or walk around every hour or setting an alarm to remind yourself to take a break. This will give your neck and upper back a chance to rest, reducing the possibility of “tech neck.”
Exercise is also an effective way to reduce “tech neck.” Strengthening your neck and upper back muscles can help to reduce strain caused by prolonged device use. You can also try yoga or Pilates, which can help improve posture and flexibility, reducing the risk of “tech neck.”
In addition to exercise, it's important to maintain a healthy lifestyle. This includes eating a well-balanced diet, getting enough sleep, and managing your stress. Stress can lead to tension in the neck and upper back, so it's essential to find ways to manage it, such as practicing mindfulness or meditation.
Finally, it's important to choose the right setup. Investing in a comfortable chair, a desk or table that is the right height, and a device stand or holder that allows you to use your device at eye level can help reduce the strain on your neck and upper back.
If "tech neck" affects your daily activities, you should contact your doctor or consider an appointment with a physical therapist to be evaluated.
Fit for Play has successfully helped thousands of patients reduce pain, improve function and prevent injury. To find out more about Mount Nittany Health Fit for Play visit fitforplay.net or call 814-861-8122.
