‘Tech neck’ has become a widespread issue in our modern world, as people are constantly straining their bones and muscles by looking down at screens for extended periods of time. However, a recent survey has found that Americans are the most affected by this problem.
Wellness experts conducted an analysis of Google searches related to ‘tech neck’ and ‘fix bad posture’ and discovered that these searches were highest in the US, followed by Australia and Canada.
Research has shown that the average American spends over five hours scrolling and even more time staring at screens each day, resulting in repeated strain on the bones and muscle stiffness.
To address this issue, a wellness and posture expert has revealed some quick fixes that can help alleviate the pain and improve posture. These include yoga moves like the Standing Forward Bend and Warrior II Pose.
The average adult head weighs 10-12 pounds, and tilting it forward at a 45-degree angle to look at a smartphone increases the strain on the neck by nearly 50 pounds.
Experiencing tech neck can feel like carrying the weight of the world on your shoulders, and in a way, it is. The average adult head weighs 10-12 pounds, and tilting it forward at a 45-degree angle to look at a smartphone increases the strain on the neck by almost 50 pounds.
The New York-Presbyterian Hospital defines ‘tech neck’ as the negative effects of spending excessive time looking down at phones or tablets, or holding the head too far forward to view a computer screen. This can lead to soreness, stiffness, and even injury.
Unfortunately, ‘tech neck’ can have numerous long-term side effects. It can cause headaches, numbness in the hands, and even permanent changes in the spine.
This is due to the fact that hours of phone usage can cause the neck muscles to lengthen and the chest muscles to shorten, putting increased pressure on the upper spine.
A recent survey commissioned by ISSA Yoga revealed that searches for ‘sore neck’ have increased by nearly 30 percent in the US in the past month.
Research shows that the average American spends more than five hours scrolling and even more time staring at screens daily, leading to repeated strain on the bones and muscle stiffness.
The countries with the highest incidence of tech neck are the US, followed by Australia, Canada, Ireland, Malta, Singapore, and the UK. On the other hand, Finland, Norway, and Cyprus rank the lowest in terms of tech neck cases.
‘Just as some people fall ill once they stop working before a holiday, others will realize that rushing to meet last-minute deadlines before the summer sun hits has had a detrimental effect on their posture, resulting in lower neck and upper back pain,’ said Erika Weiss, a wellness and posture expert at ISSA Yoga.
‘This especially holds true for individuals who spend long periods at their desk without breaks or those who work remotely and therefore don’t take restorative pauses.’
Weiss emphasizes the importance of having an ergonomic setup when using electronic devices.
‘One of the simplest ways to reduce discomfort caused by poor posture is to elevate your devices so that they are at eye level,’ she advised.
‘Be conscious of sitting up straight, and if you find yourself slumping or struggling to read, try to catch yourself and take a break if possible.
‘Avoid rolling your shoulders forward or sticking your neck out to look at the screen.’
The same principles should be applied outside of work when relaxing, playing video games, or watching TV.
Another effective way to alleviate tech neck is through the practice of yoga, as it stretches and relaxes the muscles that become tense during the day.
Weiss recommends low-impact yoga moves that focus on bending the spine without adding stress. However, she warns newcomers to yoga against rushing into exercises.
‘Many people follow the most common or popular routines without considering their suitability, which can worsen back problems and cause additional soreness,’ she cautioned.
‘Unless you are experienced, it’s best to start with the following moves that can help alleviate neck and upper back pain – but make sure not to overexert yourself at the beginning.
‘Some moves you may want to try include the Standing Forward Bend (starting in the Raised Hands Pose), the Warrior II Pose, and the Extended Triangle Pose.’
Denial of responsibility! VigourTimes is an automatic aggregator of Global media. In each content, the hyperlink to the primary source is specified. All trademarks belong to their rightful owners, and all materials to their authors. For any complaint, please reach us at – [email protected]. We will take necessary action within 24 hours.
