What Is Tech Neck & How Do You Treat It?

In our tech-driven world, it’s all too easy to find ourselves hunched over screens for hours on end. This constant posture can lead to an uncomfortable condition known as tech neck, which manifests as stiffness and pain in the neck and shoulders. Understanding what tech neck is and how to both avoid and treat it with stretches and targeted care can help keep you pain-free.

What Is Tech Neck? 

Tech neck refers to the discomfort and pain that arise from prolonged periods of looking down at screens, whether it’s a smartphone, tablet, or laptop. This common issue stems from our modern reliance on technology in both work and leisure activities.

As we tilt our heads forward and hunch our shoulders while using devices, it creates strain on the muscles and tendons in our neck and upper back. Over time, this can lead to stiffness, headaches, and even chronic pain.

The position we adopt when engaging with digital devices places undue stress on the cervical spine. That’s why it’s important to use good posture as much as possible. If left unaddressed, tech neck can contribute to long-term postural problems that affect overall well-being. Awareness is key in preventing its onset.

How to Treat Neck & Shoulder Pain With Stretches, Massage, & Chiropractic

To combat tech neck, incorporating simple stretches into your daily routine can make a significant difference. Start with the chin tuck: Gently pull your chin back while keeping your spine straight. Hold for five seconds and repeat several times to relieve pressure in your neck and shoulders. 

Perform chest openers by clasping your hands behind you and pulling away from your body as you lift through the chest area—this counteracts slouching caused by looking at screens too often. Incorporating these movements regularly can help alleviate discomfort associated with tech neck pain effectively.

Chiropractic adjustments can be a game changer for tech neck pain. When the head is constantly tilted forward, it places undue stress on the neck and spine. Chiropractors gently realign the vertebrae, helping to restore proper posture and alleviate discomfort.

These adjustments also improve range of motion in the cervical spine. You may find that turning your head becomes easier after treatment. This increased mobility can reduce tension and promote better overall function.

Massage therapy is also a powerful tool for alleviating tech neck pain. By targeting the muscles that tighten from prolonged screen time, massage helps release tension and improve circulation.

Tech neck often leads to stiffness in the shoulders and upper back, making it uncomfortable to move freely. A skilled massage therapist can use techniques like deep tissue or trigger point therapy to address these specific areas of discomfort.

Regular sessions not only provide immediate relief but also promote long-term wellness by reducing muscle tightness and enhancing flexibility. This can be especially beneficial for those who spend hours hunched over devices.

Relieve & Prevent Tech Neck With Wills Chiropractic

If you're struggling with tech neck, it's time to take action. Expert chiropractic care and targeted massage therapy can help alleviate that pain and restore proper alignment in your neck and shoulders. Reach out to Wills Chiropractic in Rochelle, IL, to schedule an appointment. Our dedicated team is here to provide personalized treatment plans tailored just for you.