Calgary Tech Neck

Technology continues to play a role in our lives increasing the chances of getting Tech Neck. Think about how much time we spend on Laptops, Desktops, tablets, iPads, and Phones.

It is no secret we are seeing a rise in strain injuries and poor posture due to the increasing use of digital devices. Strains and injuries that come from postures while texting and using handheld devices have been dubbed “Tech Neck.” A safe bet is that technology is here to stay, so here are some tips and tricks you can do to prevent getting hurt.

Whether they are craning their necks poring over a textbook or scrolling through instagram on their phone, children and adolescents are at increased risk for injuring themselves.

A quick measure is to see how far out in front of their shoulders, their ear is. It’s estimated that for every inch forward you crane your neck (ear out in front of your shoulder), an additional 10 pounds of pressure is being applied to your neck. That adds up fast and can harm your spine in a number of ways, including neck pain, hunched shoulders, and headaches.

Symptoms caused by Tech Neck:

• Neck pain
• Headaches
• Back pain
• Shoulder pain
• Hunched posture
• Arm, wrist and hand pain
• Hand and finger numbness or tingling

1. Limit screen time: Limit your screen time to 1-2 hours. If you need to be on for longer, take a 15-minute break every hour to give your neck a rest
2. Correct posture: Instead of holding the phone down and bending your head down to see it, hold it up at eye level and sit up straight with your chest out and shoulders back. If you need to bend your head down, tuck your chin into your chest rather than hanging your head forward. You need to be especially mindful of this if you wear progressive lens eyewear. The reading part of the lens is in the bottom part of the glass so you will naturally adjust your head and neck posture to focus. This will increase the strain on your neck.
3. Balance screen time with activity: No way around it – screen time creates a strain on your back and neck. If we need to spend time on screens, then a great way to neutralize the strain from that is through exercise. Taking a break every hour is important, but you can also get a free stretching program to help by visiting com.
4. Invest in furniture that will help encourage good posture: There are many options you can try to improve the ergonomics of your workstation.