We live in the “Digital Age,” a time when information is dispensed and consumed every second of every day through digital devices such as our computers and smartphones. Thanks to these devices, we are arguably better informed than any humans who lived before. However, they can lead to shrimp posture, a collection of body positions that includes tech neck. Both of these conditions can cause serious health issues.
Tech Neck: Definition, Scope, Solutions
Tech neck (also called text neck and forward head posture) results from frequently gazing down at electronic devices and their keyboards. Repetition of tech neck body movements and positions strains the neck and spine, causing neck muscles to tighten and shorten and chest muscles to weaken.
If not addressed, tech neck’s long-term consequences include:
- Balance problems that increase fall risk
- Compressed nerves that cause tingling, numbness, and weakness in hands and arms
- Degeneration of the cervical spine, cervical spondylosis, and herniated discs
- Fatigue
- Headaches, including migraines
- Musculoskeletal changes, such as joint damage, muscle stiffness, hunched shoulders, and forward head posture
- Pain in the shoulders, neck (cervical spine), and upper back (thoracic spine)
- Reduced lung capacity resulting in lower oxygen intake
The human head weighs about 10 pounds. When moved 30 degrees forward from its natural, aligned position to create the position many people assume when texting, a ten-pound head drives 40 pounds of weight onto the neck and shoulders.
Adverse effects, including reduced mobility and pain, worsen with frequency and duration. Since people often use digital devices many times a day and for long periods of time, the effects can become chronic, even permanent, and result in anxiety and depression.
However, tech neck is a problem that can be addressed. Practicing good posture, including reducing forward head posture, cutting back on device use, and taking frequent breaks during use, are excellent first steps.
Other remedies include:
- Chiropractic care
- Ergonomic options such as sit-stand or adjustable-height desks
- Exercises that strengthen chest, back, and neck muscles
- Keeping monitors and handheld devices at eye level
- Stretches
- Yoga
Seeking expert advice is wise if underlying conditions or other complications are present and is definitely indicated when symptoms of tech neck persist despite self-directed corrections.
Tech Neck Is an Example of Shrimp Posture
Imagine a shrimp with its C-shaped body. For many people, assuming a shrimp-like posture is a habit when doing desk work or using handheld devices.
Shrimp posture is poor posture characterized by slouching, which curves the spine and compresses the stomach. The more time one spends slouching, being sedentary, or using handheld devices, the more likely it becomes that shrimp posture will result.
Because the tech neck is an example of shrimp posture, the health problems connected to it apply to shrimp posture.
Other problems that can result include:
- Acid reflux and slower digestion
- Chronic fatigue
- Circulation problems
- Pain in any region of the spine: cervical (neck), thoracic (upper) and lumbar (lower)
- Sciatica
The Surprising Benefits of Improved Posture
Shrimp posture and its effects can be corrected or improved by the solutions presented earlier for tech neck. However, core-strengthening exercises and lumbar support might be beneficial because they can involve any or all regions of the spine.
Just as making healthful postural changes helps to ward off poor health, it actively supports good health. With improved lung capacity and circulation, more oxygen and blood reach the brain, boosting cognition and focus.
Anxiety, depression, and fatigue can improve, as can confidence, physical appearance, and overall vitality.
Therefore, concluding that sound posture can enhance longevity requires no great leap. Because posture impacts so much of overall health, it can extend longevity and good quality of life.
A Reward for Healthy Habits
Just as chronic and permanent pain and other health problems connected to shrimp posture are acquired over time, a lifelong commitment to corrective action can repair much, and often all, of the damage. When resolving to adopt healthy habits over a lifetime, the hope that we will be rewarded for them helps to ensure success.
A Personal Note
I’ve encountered these conditions longer than they’ve had names. If you’d like to see one chiropractor’s perspective on how our devices are hurting us, please see my website.