The sindrome tech-neck it is a very widespread problem among the Italian population, especially the younger one. It is linked to the prolonged use of smartphone he was born in tablet. With the spread of smart working, due to Covid-19, its effects have tripled.
By “tech-neck syndrome” we mean a series of symptoms resulting from incorrect posture that we tend to assume when we use the main electronic devices for work or leisure. Usually the position that is adopted is the one that forces us to have the neck stretched down and the shoulders bent forward.
What causes tech-neck syndrome
This type of ailment causes cervical breaking latest news, headache, joint pain in the shoulders and arms. To these symptoms are added respiratory problems and acute muscle tension. Furthermore, by constantly keeping the neck stretched downwards, the skin in this area loses elasticity; consequently, the first wrinkles and the double chin. The latter are real unsightly problems, a worry for many women.
Several scientific studies that have thoroughly analyzed this problem have shown that the age group most at risk is that of adolescents. In fact, the generation of millennials spends many hours in front of the screen of smartphones and tablets to chat or to update their social networks.
When we use a smartphone, the tilted head stresses the neck muscles in an exaggerated way compared to when we stand upright. This means that millennials could be doomed to spinal problems because, in the long run, their poor posture could cause a real deformation of the natural curve of the neck.
How to limit the effects of tech-neck syndrome
To limit the effects of tech-neck syndrome, physiatrists recommend first of all reduce hours that are spent in front of the screens of electronic devices. Also, when using them, they recommend avoiding standing. This is a very common wrong habit which, unwittingly, causes us to keep the cervico-dorsal tract tilted and the hands at chest height. Instead, the ideal is to sit, possibly on a chair or an armchair, and place the smartphone or tablet in a frontal position at face level.
The effects of tech-neck syndrome can also be countered with some exercises specific to postural gymnastics. Their function is to allow all the muscles affected by the posture we assume during the day to perform a healthy and valuable stretching. By doing this, these muscles that are usually tense and contracted relax and prevent severe tension and pain at the end of the day.
One of the most recommended exercises involves lying on the floor, leaning your legs against the wall until they form a 90º angle. Then try to bring the chin as close as possible to the chest. This exercise is very simple to perform at home and allows you to relax and stretch ischiocrural muscles, paravertebral and neck.
Another exercise that allows you to strengthen the cervical tract is to place the palm of the hand on the forehead and push back by applying an equal and opposite force with the head. On the other hand, if we get on our knees and bend forward extending our arms until our hands are resting on the ground, we allow the lower back to stretch and relax.