Baltimore, Maryland Physical Therapy
Mid-Atlantic Spinal Rehab & Chiropractic offers a team that specializes in Baltimore, Maryland physical therapy. Our team knows that advances in technology have improved the world. However, the use of technology has many of us hunched over our devices for hours on end. Indeed, it has even become an addiction for an ever-increasing number of individuals. Kids and adults alike may spend hours on end focusing attention on nothing but their digital screens. Fortunately, our physical therapy Baltimore, MD relies on can help to relieve the neck pain and discomfort caused by the overuse of technology.
About Tech Neck
Most adults spend a few hours every day texting, playing games, posting on social media, and browsing on their smartphones. However, fixating on these electronics can lead to physical harm. An adult’s head is intended to remain in a neutral, upright position, producing very little stress on the neck. If the head is bent forward, the weight of it forces the neck to work harder to hold it in place. Over time, this leads to a condition called “tech neck.” Here are five ways to avoid it that our Baltimore, MD physical therapy practice recommends.
- Take a break from technology
Taking frequent breaks from your screens and devices can help prevent tech neck. Our Baltimore, Maryland physical therapy team recommends that you stop to move and stretch about every half hour. You’ll also want to rest your eyes to give them a break from the potentially over-stimulating light coming from your digital screens. Spend at least a few minutes each hour taking a quick break from your screen time and leave your device behind during your lunch break.
- Mind your posture
Another way to prevent tech neck is to sit up straight when using your phone, tablet, or computer. Ideally, your head should be upright and in a neutral position, where your ears are aligned with your shoulders. If possible, keep your screens at eye level and don’t lean into them. Adjust your devices rather than adjusting your body for the optimal viewing position. Our Baltimore, Maryland physical therapy can provide helpful advice about proper posture and ergonomics to help reduce your risk of tech neck.
- Stretch it out
Stretching is an excellent way to release the muscle tension associated with tech neck. Being aware of your posture and maintaining an upright (not slumped) position may take some time and self-reminding. Still, you will likely discover in short order how having good posture eliminates a lot of pain and discomfort.
- Engage in more movement
The more you move, exercise, and strengthen your muscles, the more likely it is that you will avoid the pain of tech neck. Moderate moves like shoulder rolls can help correct muscular imbalances. Add movements to your routine that provide more stability and support in your body. Focus on strengthening the neck, back, and core muscles of your body. Such exercises will not only help you avoid neck pain, but they’ll also help to improve your posture.
- Get help from our Baltimore, Maryland physical therapy specialists!
If you have a tech neck condition that is quite advanced, chiropractic care can help. When lifestyle changes don’t suffice, Mid-Atlantic Spinal Rehab & Chiropractic can step in and perform chiropractic adjustments to relieve your pain and help your body heal. For more information on managing tech neck, contact us to schedule a Baltimore, Maryland physical therapy appointment today.