Fixing "tech neck" is crucial for anyone who spends extended periods in front of a screen, as it can lead to chronic pain and restricted movement. According to physical therapist Patrick Suarez, OCS, SCS, the problem lies not with stretching, but rather with strengthening the muscles in the back of the neck.
The first step in correcting "tech neck" is to strengthen these muscles, which will help improve posture and reduce the likelihood of pain around the base of the neck and shoulders. To do this, Suarez recommends a series of upper back exercises that focus on maintaining proper alignment and promoting strength.
One exercise involves standing tall with your back against a wall and sliding your hands up towards the ceiling, squeezing your shoulder blades together at the top of the movement. Another exercise involves rotating your torso while seated in a half-kneeling position beside a wall.
For added benefit, Suarez also recommends doing row variations to target the muscles between and above the shoulder blade. These exercises can help improve upper back extension and promote better overall head posture.
Finally, there are four specific stretches that can be done prone, which target the muscles between, above and below the shoulder blade. These exercises can help improve upper back extension, promoting better overall head posture.
While these exercises may seem simple, it's essential to remember that they require practice and patience to see results. The key is to make small increments and work on improving your posture over time. With consistent effort, you can overcome "tech neck" and enjoy a healthier, more comfortable life.
The first step in correcting "tech neck" is to strengthen these muscles, which will help improve posture and reduce the likelihood of pain around the base of the neck and shoulders. To do this, Suarez recommends a series of upper back exercises that focus on maintaining proper alignment and promoting strength.
One exercise involves standing tall with your back against a wall and sliding your hands up towards the ceiling, squeezing your shoulder blades together at the top of the movement. Another exercise involves rotating your torso while seated in a half-kneeling position beside a wall.
For added benefit, Suarez also recommends doing row variations to target the muscles between and above the shoulder blade. These exercises can help improve upper back extension and promote better overall head posture.
Finally, there are four specific stretches that can be done prone, which target the muscles between, above and below the shoulder blade. These exercises can help improve upper back extension, promoting better overall head posture.
While these exercises may seem simple, it's essential to remember that they require practice and patience to see results. The key is to make small increments and work on improving your posture over time. With consistent effort, you can overcome "tech neck" and enjoy a healthier, more comfortable life.