Smartphones and personal technology like tablets have become so ubiquitous that they’ve created a new phenomenon: tech neck. Like most people, you probably spend several hours every day with your head bent over your laptop and phone, working and communicating with your coworkers and friends. While the convenience that modern technology provides is priceless, it can also lead to pain and strains in your neck, shoulders, and back.
If you’re one of the millions of Americans living with acute or chronic pain, we can help. Our team of pain management specialists at Republic Spine & Pain offers a range of pain treatments and solutions from two convenient locations in Austin and Georgetown, Texas.
Most people know that good posture is important, and that sitting for long periods of time can cause pain, stiffness, and a host of other potentially serious health problems. Low back pain is still one of the most common causes of chronic pain among American adults, but neck pain is becoming more common as people spend several hours every day bent over a smartphone or handheld device.
If you’re experiencing pain, stiffness, or soreness in your neck and shoulders, tech neck may be to blame. The symptoms are caused by the posture that most people adopt while scrolling through their phones or working at a desk without paying attention to how they’re sitting: neck bent forward over the shoulders, shoulders slumped, with a curved lower back.
While most people will probably experience some form of tech neck at some point, there are a few practical steps you can take to protect yourself from neck pain:
Try to keep your spine straight and your shoulders relaxed.
Set a timer if necessary to remind yourself that it’s time to stand up and take a break. Another step you can take is to break up your smartphone use into shorter periods throughout the day when possible.
Movement is one of the best antidotes to stiffness and stretching is a great way to prevent repetitive motion strains. Yoga and Pilates exercises can be great for your neck, back, and joints, but always seek advice from a medical professional before starting a new fitness routine to make sure that it’s safe and effective for your situation.
Neck and back pain can be debilitating and interfere with everything from your ability to get a good night’s sleep to your job performance and participating in the activities you love. For more information about the pain management solutions available at our offices in Austin and Georgetown, Texas, contact us today to schedule an appointment with one of our pain specialists.
