As a physiotherapist, I want to share with you the negative impact of spending too much time on electronic devices and how it can lead to Tech Neck. This common issue can be resolved with simple steps that will not only reduce pain and headaches but also improve the overall health of your body.
Table of Contents
Understanding Tech Neck
Tech Neck is a condition that occurs due to poor posture while using electronic devices. When we use our phones or tablets, we tend to flex our neck and shoulders, leading to further strain on the muscles and joints. The more we do this, the more tension builds up, leading to pain and headaches.
The Importance of Good Posture
Good posture is crucial for maintaining good health. It helps prevent muscle and joint pain, improves breathing, and enhances physical performance. By sitting more upright, we can reduce the strain on our muscles and joints, and avoid developing Tech Neck.
Awareness is the first step in solving the issue of Tech Neck. Most children may not be aware of their bad posture while using their devices, so it’s important to point this out to them and remind them to sit more upright. By bringing their chest up and lifting the phone to align their gaze straight, they can avoid flexing their neck and shoulders.
Simple Steps to Combat Tech Neck
In addition to improving posture, it’s important to avoid remaining in the same position for a long period of time. Taking a break every 30 minutes, even if it’s just to roll the shoulders and turn the neck side to side, can help reduce tension buildup. These simple actions will not only help combat Tech Neck but also improve overall posture and prevent other issues related to bad posture.
Tech Neck Video Transcript
You might have noticed your kids are spending a lot of time on their phones and tablets. If they are, then they might have “Tech Neck.” So, what is Tech Neck? It develops when you’re in a poor position while using your devices. This is quite a common issue that you might see with your kids.
Now, why is this a problem? The more flexed you are, the heavier your head is. This creates more strain and tension on your muscles and joints. If you let this build up over time, it can lead to pain and headaches.
Tech Neck Fix
So, what can you do about it? How can you help your kids correct this posture? The first step is just awareness. They are likely not aware that they’re doing this because they’re focused on their devices. So, you can point this out to them and gently remind them when you notice that this is happening. If they become aware of it, what you can do to correct it is simply sitting more upright. So, if we’re down like this, actually bringing the chest up and lifting the phone so the gaze is more straight as opposed to looking down. You can also look at the phone just with a gentle nod of the head, rather than a bend through the back and the upper neck.
Tech Neck Exercises
The last thing you can do, which is the most important, is to not remain in this position for a long period of time. So, every 30 minutes, it’s encouraged to just roll the shoulders, turn the neck side to side. Even that simple break will help stop the buildup of tension that leads to pain and headaches.
I encourage you to give this a try and encourage your kids to give this a try. If you do have any trouble or you’re still finding that there are problems, feel free to comment “Tech Neck” below, and we’ll be in touch.
Conclusion:
By following these simple steps, you can help yourself, and your children combat Tech Neck and improve your overall health. Remember, good posture is essential for maintaining good health, and simple actions such as taking regular breaks and sitting more upright can make a big difference. If you are experiencing any trouble, don’t hesitate to seek professional help from your local physiotherapist. Let’s move better, feel better!
