Tech neck is a problem that is becoming more prevalent over time. It is caused by text neck, an overuse syndrome characterized by a tendency to look down at their phone, tablet, or computer for long periods leading to pain and discomfort in the neck, shoulders, and back. Massage is an excellent way to help relieve tech neck pain because it helps release tight muscles that are often a source of tension.
How Your Posture Contributes to the Tech Neck
The most common cause of tech neck pain is the alteration of the natural curvature of the cervical spine resulting in an unnatural forward head posture; your head tilts far forward. When one hunches over their device, they are placing a lot of pressure on these areas. It can lead to muscle strain, neck pain, and drooping shoulders.
The Muscles Involved in Tech Neck
There are several muscles involved in the tech neck including:
- Splenius capitis muscles: a thin, flat muscle that attaches to the back of the skull and runs down to connect to the top of the spine. It helps with flexing and rotating your head and neck. This muscle is the most commonly injured in the neck.
- Upper trapezius muscle: this muscle runs from the base of the skull to the shoulder blade. It is one of the most common muscles that become tight and causes pain in people who spend a lot of time looking down at their phone or computer screens.
- Levator scapulae muscle: this muscle attaches to the skull and upper back. It originates from the cervical spine and is inserted on the medial border of the scapula. It is essential because it helps tilt and rotate your head and move your shoulder blade.
- Scalene muscles: these are found on each side of the neck and help with breathing.
- Sternocleidomastoid muscle: it’s on either side of the throat, near where it meets with the clavicle bone. It helps with turning your head to one side or tilting it up or down.
- Rhomboids: these muscles are found on either side of the spine and help with pulling your shoulders back
What Can You Do to Correct Tech Neck Pain?
The best way to correct tech neck is by stretching out the muscles in your back, shoulders, and upper spine with simple exercises. If you are experiencing severe pain or discomfort, it may be worth seeing a chiropractor for some relief.
The best way to avoid Tech Neck is to ensure that your posture is as good as possible when using your device. Book an appointment with us if you are after the best massage therapy in Brooklyn, NY treat your tech neck issue. At Naturally Zuri Massage & Therapeutic Bodywork, our ultimate goal is to keep your body aligned.
