The Philippines, just like other developing nations, has experienced an influx of technological innovations over the past years. On the one hand, they have brought significant improvements in different sectors. On the other hand, the said advancements pose certain health risks.

For instance, the extended use of computers, smart gadgets, and other digital devices has led to health issues that include musculoskeletal problems like forward head posture, AKA tech neck. If left untreated, it can lead to neck stiffness, balance issues, and so forth. The good news is that it can be easily managed with chiropractic massage and other chiro treatments.

Tech Neck: An Overview

Tech neck is a term that is utilized to describe a chronic condition that is caused by repeatedly straining the neck muscles while using devices such as computers, phones, tablets, and so forth. In the long run, it can lead to poor posture, misalign the spine, inflame the joints, and pinch the nerves, among others.

It should be noted that the head is heavy, and the neck muscles are specifically designed to support and hold it upright. That said, tilting the head forward when using the aforementioned devices can strain the said muscles.

Putting the said factors into consideration, it can be said such a condition is no laughing matter. This is because failure to do so may pave the way to the development of tech biomechanical dysfunction of the spinal column, which if left untreated may negatively impact the brain. Particularly, the nerve impulses that travel to the brain. This is according to a study that was published in the Journal of Gait and Posture.

In the study, the researchers evaluated how feedback to the brain from the cervical spine (upper back) can be messed up by tech neck. Consequently, this may jeopardize the proprioception (the body’s ability to sense a movement, location, and action) as well as the vestibular (provides a sense of balance) system. Because of this, individuals who have a tech neck may have a higher risk of experiencing poor balance, on top of pain and dysfunction that are generated by the head being in the forward position.

Contributing Factors in the Philippines

There are a couple of reasons why tech neck is quite high in the Philippines. Some of the most notable ones are the country’s social media usage, smartphone usage, and work from home set up. Let’s take a closer look.

• Social Media Usage

According to data from Statista, in 2022, over 74.72 percent of the population, or about 84 million people, used social media networks. It is estimated to grow to up to 77.78% in 2029.

• Smartphone Usage

In 2016, the Philippines was the fastest-growing smartphone market in all of Southeast Asia. In fact, in the first quarter of the said year, over 3.5 million smartphones were shipped to the country. Between 2024 and 2029, according to Statista, there is going to be an increase of 36.7 million users (an increase of 61.78%). By 2029, it is estimated that there will be 96.12 million smartphone users in the country.

• Work From Home Set Up

In a 2021 study, 52% of Filipino employees worked from home and it actually spiked to 85% during the peak of the COVID-19 Pandemic.

Chiropractic Massage and Other Methods for Tech Neck

Chiropractic massage and other methods of chiropractic treatment are some of the best options for correcting tech neck. This is because of the fact that it can fix poor spinal alignment that is caused by hunching the neck forward for extended periods. It should be noted that unnatural spine alignment may exacerbate neck pain and lead to pinched nerves that may worsen discomfort.

By realigning the spine, inflammation can be reduced and discomfort can be diminished. In addition to all these, a chiropractic doctor can also give advice on some of the best ways to maintain proper posture and avoid painful musculoskeletal conditions from developing.

Let us take a closer look at how chiropractic massage and other forms of chiro treatment can help treat tech neck.

• Chiropractic Massage

Chiropractic massage is a method of kneading and rubbing the muscles in such a way that it concentrates on the deep layers of the muscle tissue. It is performed to effectively, efficiently, and safely discharge accumulated tension in the body. Here, the chiropractor utilizes deep pressure to slowly stroke the neck area to break down the bands of the rigid tissues. It is done either by going across or following the muscles, tendons, and fascia.

He or she may use his or her hands to apply just the right amount of pressure to the affected area. In an effort to alleviate pain and promote healing faster, the chiropractor may also perform complementary massage techniques such as deep tissue, trigger point therapy, and so on.

• Chiropractic Adjustments

Chiropractic adjustments or spinal manipulations are specifically designed to fix the alignment of the spine and, in the process, reduce tension in the muscles, bones, and tissues that connect them. On top of this, the said method can help maintain optimum alignment of the spine. This is essential because being in an unnatural position may exacerbate neck pain and cause pinched nerves, which in turn can worsen the discomfort of tech neck.

• Instrument-assisted Techniques

Instrument-assisted techniques for the neck include the utilization of specialized tools that can aid a chiropractor apply the right amount of pressure and mobilize the muscles, joints, and ligaments of the neck area. To add, the said tools can also aid in reducing inflammation, breaking up scar tissue, and promoting optimal function of the neck and the whole cervical spine region.

Why Tech Neck Should not be Taken for Granted

Tech neck is a condition that should not be taken for granted because, in time, its symptoms may accumulate and worsen. Here, the spine can become weakened and potentially lead to ailments that include degenerative disc disease, osteoarthritis, and so on.

If you are experiencing tech neck or other similar conditions, it is best to seek professional chiropractic treatment at Posture Perfect. Our doctors are not just going to perform chiropractic massage therapy and other techniques, they are also going to develop a personalized plan that is tailored to your specific needs. In turn, the underlying issues are addressed and optimal results are achieved.

Do not let tech neck as well as restricted movement hold you back and hamper your regular routine. Book an appointment at Posture Perfect and take the first step towards a healthier life.