What is “Tech Neck”?
You have likely heard the term Tech Neck – but what is really happening inside your body?
Tech Neck refers to the strain placed on your neck, shoulders and upper back from repeatedly looking down at electronic devices, such as smartphones, tablets and laptops for prolonged periods of time. This forward head posture forces your muscles, joints and spine to work much harder than they are designed to.
In fact, for every 1cm that your head is held forward, it effectively gains 2kg of extra weight! Over time, this increased load places excessive pressure on the spine and its surrounding structures, leading to dysfunction of the muscles, bones and joints.
If left unaddressed, Tech Neck can contribute to:
- muscle imbalances;
- poor posture;
- nerve pain stemming from the neck;
- neck, back & shoulder pain;
- reduced mobility and stiffness; and
- headaches and fatigue.
Why is Tech Neck becoming so common?
Electronic devices have become an unavoidable part of everyday life. Whether we are working, relaxing or socialising, screen time now takes up a significant portion of our day. Research published in 2025 by the Institute of Practitioners in Advertising (IPA), found that British adults aged 15 and over, spend almost 7.5 hours per day engaged in screen-based activities. Unfortunately, we often spend this time without paying attention to how we are positioning our bodies. Poor sitting habits and prolonged periods of sitting without movement can negatively affect our posture, contributing to Tech Neck.
As we move into the New Year, new resolutions and changes in daily habits can make Tech Neck more common. Whether its tracking goals, following online fitness plans, or spending more time working on laptops and phones, increased screen time can encourage us to sit in positions that can significantly increase the risk of Tech Neck.
How to prevent or reduce Tech Neck
As our lives grow more intertwined with screens, the team at Wolverhampton Chiropractic Clinic have put together some helpful tips and tricks to help you prevent Tech Neck.
- Take regular breaks – Aim to take a short break every 30-60 minutes, where you stand up and move around to reduce muscle fatigue and spinal strain.
- Stretch frequently – Gentle stretching throughout the day can help to relieve tension in your neck, shoulders and back. Start or end your day with some yoga movements to improve flexibility and counteract any forward head posture.
- Mind your posture – Whilst using your digital devices, keep your head stacked over your shoulders rather than leaning forward and bring your screen up to eye level to prevent you from looking down.
- Invest in ergonomic gadgets – Adjustable chairs, support pillows and standing desks can help to maintain posture and reduce unnecessary strain on your body.
How can a Chiropractor help with Tech Neck?
Chiropractic care can provide a key role to alleviate the symptoms associated with Tech Neck. Through the use of a range of techniques and a multi-disciplinary approach, the team at Wolverhampton Chiropractic can help to relieve the pressure on your joints from Tech Neck, strengthen your muscles and improve your range of motion and posture to allow your body to function at its optimum, keeping you moving and pain free.
Contact Wolverhampton Chiropractic Clinic today on 01902 964917 or click to learn more about how to schedule your consultation this New Year.
