"Tech neck": myth and reality of smartphone-related neck pain

Between three and five hours a day: that's how long we spend on average hunched over our smartphones. This repeated posture gave rise to the concept of "tech neck," theorized in 2009 by a chiropractor.

An alarming, unconfirmed theory

According to this theory, intensive phone use would cause progressive hunching, cervical pain, postural disorders, and even spinal degeneration. These claims particularly worried parents.

Physiotherapists are now providing important nuances. According to Héméric Waerwarde, a physiotherapist active on social media, there is no scientific evidence to validate the existence of a true "tech neck" effect. The phone causes neither permanent head tilt nor spinal lesions.

Real but temporary pain

However, staying hunched over for a long time and repeatedly stretches certain muscles, which can indeed generate:

• Neck and upper shoulder pain
• A sensation of stiffness
• Headaches

This pain can also be linked to stress or a sedentary lifestyle. To limit it, regular breaks and neck mobility exercises are recommended, as well as regular physical activity.

To find out more about the detailed recommendations, consult the full article.

Source: Tech neck: Is your mobile phone a danger to your neck?

This summary aims to be transparent and neutral. Disconnecto acts here as an observer of the digital landscape, without taking a stand. We invite you to consult the original source for a complete reading.