What is Tech Neck?
Tech neck, characterized by forward head posture, rounded shoulders, and strained neck muscles, is a prevalent issue among children who spend significant time engaging with electronic devices.
What Causes Tech Neck?
Prolonged screen use leads to muscle imbalances, spinal misalignments, and increased pressure on the cervical spine, contributing to discomfort, headaches, and reduced mobility.
What Are the Symptoms of Tech Neck? Symptoms related to tech neck are typically mild in the initial phases and increase as the condition advances. The most frequently reported symptoms include:
Generalized aching discomfort in the lower neck, shoulders, and upper back
Sharp, stabbing pain that’s intense and localized in one spot
Headaches
Reduced mobility or stiffness in the neck, upper back, and shoulders
Increased pain when tilting the head forward and looking down to text
Jaw pain due to misalignment of the cervical spine
Tingling pain and numbness in the arms and hands, related to spinal nerve irritation and inflammation
Head's Weight Magnified
The weight of the head is a key factor for text neck pain. The neck’s muscles, tendons, and ligaments are meant to support the head’s weight—10 to 12 pounds—in a neutral position balanced atop the cervical spine. When texting on a phone, it is common to bend the head forward and look down at a 45- or 60-degree angle, which places about 50 to 60 pounds of force on the neck. The neck is not able to withstand this amount of pressure over a prolonged period.
Prolonged screen time can also cause deconditioning of certain muscles in your chest, and upper back. This makes it difficult to maintain good posture, with your ears directly over the shoulders, which can worsen the symptoms associated with tech neck.
Tech Neck in Children
In today's digital age, an increasing number of children in Naperville are experiencing the adverse effects of "tech neck" – a term used to describe the strain and discomfort resulting from prolonged use of electronic devices.
Through case studies, we unravel the effects of tech neck and highlight the benefits of chiropractic care in Naperville.
Can Tech Neck Cause Headaches?
Case Study 1: Sarah's Struggle with Tech Neck
Sarah, a 12-year-old avid gamer from Naperville, began experiencing frequent headaches and neck pain after hours spent hunched over her gaming console. Despite her parents' concerns, Sarah was reluctant to reduce her screen time. However, her discomfort escalated, affecting her concentration and school performance.
Tech Neck from Reading
Case Study 2: Jason's Journey to Relief
Jason, a 15-year-old high school student in Naperville, was constantly glued to his smartphone, scrolling through social media feeds for hours on end. Over time, he developed persistent neck and shoulder pain, impacting his posture and athletic performance on the basketball court.
Tech Neck Treatment Near Me
Chiropractic care offers a holistic approach to addressing tech neck, targeting the root cause of discomfort rather than merely masking symptoms. Through gentle adjustments, our chiropractors in Naperville realign the spine, alleviate muscle tension, and restore proper posture, providing relief from tech neck symptoms.
Restores Postural Alignment: Chiropractic adjustments correct spinal misalignments caused by tech neck, promoting proper posture and spinal health among children in Naperville.
Relieves Muscle Tension: By releasing tension in the neck and shoulder muscles, chiropractic care reduces discomfort and stiffness associated with prolonged screen use.
Improves Range of Motion: Regular chiropractic adjustments enhance mobility and flexibility, allowing children in Naperville to move freely without restrictions imposed by tech neck.
Enhances Overall Well-being: Beyond alleviating physical symptoms, chiropractic care fosters emotional well-being and mental clarity, empowering children to maintain a balanced lifestyle amidst digital distractions.
How to Prevent Tech Neck
Tech neck poses significant challenges to the well-being of children, impacting their physical health, academic performance, and overall quality of life. Through the testimonies of Sarah and Jason, we witness the profound impact of chiropractic care in mitigating tech neck symptoms and restoring vitality. By prioritizing spinal health and embracing chiropractic interventions, children in Naperville can reclaim their posture, alleviate discomfort, and thrive in the digital era. Dr. Kathryn Boyle, an ICPA member, is trained in dealing with prenatal care, pregnancy, and children.
Schedule your appointment today with our team of chiropractors conveniently located in Naperville.