Cameron Stewart, D.C.

Hey North Florida, Dr. Cam here!

It’s funny – back working on the farm in Mead, WA, or during intense physical training in the military, the physical stresses were obvious: heavy lifting, awkward positions, long hours on my feet. Now, many of us face a different kind of physical stress, one that seems less dramatic but can be just as problematic: the constant downward gaze at our phones, tablets, and computer screens. Welcome to the era of “Tech Neck” or “Text Neck.”

Think about it: your head weighs about 10-12 pounds. When you tilt it forward to look down at a screen, the effective weight on your cervical spine (your neck) increases dramatically. Tilt it 15 degrees, and it’s like your head weighs 27 pounds. At 60 degrees? It’s like carrying 60 pounds on your neck! Doing this for hours daily puts immense strain on the muscles, ligaments, and discs.

Even though my own neck pain history is linked more to athletics and military service, I absolutely see the effects of modern technology posture in my practice every day here in North Florida. Symptoms often include:

• Neck pain and stiffness
• Upper back pain (between the shoulder blades)
• Shoulder tension and pain
• Headaches (often starting at the base of the skull)
• Even numbness or tingling in the arms/hands if nerves get irritated

How Chiropractic Helps Combat Tech Neck:

Just like addressing misalignments caused by older injuries or heavy labor, chiropractic care is fantastic for counteracting the effects of poor digital posture:

1. Restoring Neck Curve & Alignment: Adjustments can help gently restore proper motion to the cervical vertebrae, counteracting the forward head posture. This takes the strain off the supporting muscles and ligaments.
2. Relieving Muscle Tension: By improving joint mechanics, adjustments help associated tight muscles (like those in your neck, shoulders, and upper back) to relax.
3. Reducing Nerve Irritation: If that forward head posture is irritating nerves and causing headaches or radiating symptoms, adjustments can help alleviate the pressure.
4. Postural Education & Exercises: We don’t just adjust; we educate! I often provide patients with specific advice on workstation ergonomics, simple stretches (like chin tucks), and exercises to strengthen postural muscles to help prevent the problem from recurring.

Whether your neck pain started from an old injury like mine, or it’s crept up thanks to screen time, the solution often involves restoring proper mechanics. Don’t let your devices dictate your posture and comfort!

If you’re feeling that tell-tale neck or upper back strain, let’s check your alignment. Visit http://www.drcam.rocks to schedule an evaluation.

Stay mindful of your posture!

Dr. Cam