Parents and students everywhere are preparing for the start of a new school year, and with that, we know that there are plenty of things you plan to pack. Notebooks, pencils, and maybe even a cool new lunchbox may be on your planning list for back-to-school, but there’s one thing we don’t want you to take with you: Tech neck.
What is Tech Neck?
Tech neck is a term used to describe aches and pains in your neck, shoulders, and upper back as a result of using technology. Some of the most common causes of tech neck include:
- Smartphones and texting
- Laptops and computers
- Video and computer gaming
“Text neck” is a similar phrase used to describe neck pain from keeping your head tilted whole texting, but this pain can come from the prolonged usage of any form of technology.
Why Do Students Develop Tech Neck?
Although tech neck isn’t limited to only students, children, teens, and college students are more susceptible to tech neck because of their habits, both in the classroom and at home. When at home, many students spend hours texting, surfing the web, playing video games, using social media, video chatting with friends, and completing homework on computers.
In the classroom, digital tools are everywhere these days. Even elementary school students are now expected to work with technology on a daily basis, and many schools utilize laptops in the classroom as a matter of course. Hours spent with your neck tilted can lead to the development of tech neck.
The Impact of Tech Neck on Students
If you’re wondering whether you or a child are suffering from tech neck, below are some telltale signs that can indicate a problem:
- Neck Pain and Stiffness
- Shoulder Pain
- Headaches
- Decreased Mobility
Another unfortunate side effect of tech neck for students is the potential for pain to interfere with learning. When a student is distracted by pain, they aren’t able to concentrate on schoolwork.
This can lead to emotional stress and has the potential to make physical challenges worse.
Preventing Tech Neck in Students
Preventing tech neck involves adopting better habits and practices to reduce strain on the neck and spine. This may not be completely possible depending on a classroom’s setup, but there are steps your student can take to mitigate problems, including:
Practice Good Posture
Students should sit up straight with their shoulders back and their ears aligned with their shoulders. This can help reduce strain on the neck and spine.
Elevate Devices
Devices should be at eye level to avoid bending the neck forward. Use stands or holders to elevate laptops and tablets, and hold smartphones at eye level when in use.
Take Frequent Breaks
Students should take regular breaks from their devices when possible. The 20-20-20 rule is a good guideline: Every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break and look at something 20 feet away. This keeps you from holding your neck in one position for long periods of time and gives your eyes a chance to refocus.
Strengthen Neck Muscles
Exercises that strengthen the neck and upper back muscles can help improve posture and reduce the risk of tech neck. Ask your chiropractic physician or primary doctor for guidance.
Stretch Regularly
Incorporate stretching into your daily routine to maintain flexibility and reduce muscle tension. Simple neck stretches can be very effective at warding off tech neck.
Use Ergonomic Furniture
When possible, use study areas that are ergonomically designed to support good posture. Chairs should support the lower back, and desks should be at the correct height for a student’s seated height.
Chiropractic Care for Tech Neck
Despite your best efforts to maintain good posture and take breaks, tech neck can still develop. This is where chiropractic care can play a crucial role. Our offices in Waxhaw and Pineville offer a range of treatments to address tech neck and improve spinal health, including:
- Manual Adjustments
- Cold Laser Therapy
- Flexion-Distraction Therapy
- Axial and Lumbar Decompression Therapy
- Intersegmental Traction Beds
- Electrical Muscle Stimulation Therapy
- Light Bed Therapy
Leave Tech Neck Behind in the New School Year
Although technology is a part of our lives, it doesn’t have to cause your student pain. By taking some simple steps each day, your child can take full advantage of tech while focusing on their studies free from pain.
Schedule Your Appointment With One of Our Chiropractic Physicians
If you’re concerned about neck pain, back pain, or headaches, or if you have a student in your life who is complaining about potential tech neck, schedule an appointment with Carolinas Chiropractic and Spinal Rehab.
Our chiropractic physicians in Waxhaw and Pineville provide personalized solutions and care for back and neck pain, and we can offer guidance and recommendations to help your student make this year the best yet.
Call our team today at (704) 243-1010, or schedule your appointment online right now!
