Technology and Neck Pain: Coping Strategies for Denver Residents
Our ancient ancestors spent their days hunting for food and running from life-threatening carnivores, but today, we pass the time with email, social media, video games, and other tantalizing technological distractions.
It's tough to go more than a single day without glancing at your phone. In fact, U.S. adults spend more than 10 hours daily using their computers, phones, tablets, and video game consoles. That's a lot of screen time!
Tech is useful and fun, but excessive use does your neck no favors. Learn about the relationship between technology and neck pain, plus coping mechanisms to help you ward off "tech neck" for good.
Too Much Screen Time Can Be a Pain in the Neck
Experts say that adults should limit screen time to one to two hours per day, and young kids should spend even less time behind screens than that. The reality is that most people don't abide by expert suggestions until it's far too late.
Many people will simply ignore neck pain because they can't pull themselves away from their phone, tablet, or TV, but doing so can be a big mistake. You could wake up one morning with a neck ache that even the best pain relief medication can't relieve.
Tips for Managing and Preventing Tech Neck
You don't have to give up your phone completely, but by following these tips, you can slash your chances of ending up with stubborn chronic strain in your neck:
- Limit your screen time as much as possible. Adults and kids aged five to 17 should have no more than two hours of screen time per day. Parents should limit screen time to one hour per day for kids aged two to five. Children under two should have zero screen time, with the exception of video chatting with family and friends.
- Take breaks from tech every 15 to 20 minutes. If you have trouble remembering to set your phone down, you can download an app to remind you.
- Try a simple exercise to loosen up your neck. Gently roll your neck in a circular motion clockwise, then do the same in the other direction.
- Perform core strengthening exercises to help your body maintain a better posture while sitting.
- Use ice or heat. Place a heating pad or cold pack against your aching neck for about 15 to 20 minutes.
- Buy a chair with good lumbar support. This is a must-have if you spend all day at your desk for work.
Other Causes of Neck Pain
Sometimes, technology isn't responsible for your neck pain. Conditions that can cause an aching neck include:
- Whiplash
- Spinal stenosis
- Disc herniation
- Cervical radiculopathy
Reach Out to Us if Your Neck Pain Just Won't Quit
Technology and neck pain are related, but with coping strategies, Denver residents can relieve stiffness and pain. If your neck pain won't go away after rest and it doesn't respond to any over-the-counter relief, MD Pain may be able to help. You may be a candidate for cortisone shots, acupuncture, physical therapy, or one of our other neck pain treatments.
To make an appointment with MD Pain, call (303) 750-8100 today.