Is Technology Hurting You?
By Dawn Uncapher
Essential Balance, LLC
“Tech – Neck” Is it the cause of your pain?
Postural Digression: Small electronics are causing big problems!
Do you suffer from any of the following?
- Neck pain
- Shoulder pain, burning or stabbing pain in between shoulder blades
- Low back pain
- Headaches / Migraines
- Tingling or pain in arms, elbows, fingers, thumb
- Blurred vision or trouble focusing
Most Americans use their cell phones on average 2 to 5 hours per day. We use iPads and cell phones to entertain ourselves and our children with videos, social media, TV, articles, internet searches, or interact via email, text or talk. This forward and downward position of the head plays a huge role in increasing health problems in ages from 12 to 65. There is an increase in headaches, vision trouble, neck and shoulder pain and injuries in young adults. Look around you right now, how many people do you count that have the appearance of a rounded upper shoulder and forward head?
Before birth we are in a fetal position. After birth gravity assists us in lying flat. Then we start to develop our spinal curves to allow the weight distribution “center of gravity” allowing us to stand upright and have functional movement. In a standing posture your head should be over your shoulders with your ears aligned with the center of your shoulders. In this position the average head weighs between 10 -12 lbs with the weight equally distributed through the spine and muscles that balance the head. Shift the head 15 degrees forward and the weight becomes 27 lbs; 45 degrees forward as if looking at your cell phone and the weight becomes approximately 50 lbs. That is equivalent to having a small child sitting on your neck and pushing your head forward for hours. This posture can also be from an improper ergonomic workstation if you work on a computer. This position causes inflammation and strain on supporting muscles, ligaments and nerves due to being stretched forward. As we curve forward, again training muscles to become imbalanced and work under stress, that shifts our spinal column, which can impinge on nerves and cause arthritis to develop.
3 Step Revolutionary Approach
- Reduce Pain
- Minimize cause
- Restore function
The reality is that Americans will not be giving up their small electronic devices. Therefore, we need to neutralize the effects. How can we reduce the risk factors? If you work on a computer, make sure that you look at your screen at approximately a 15 degree eyes shift and do not tilt your head forward and down. Hold your phone up to your eye level and prop your arm on a pillow or table for support. Take a short 3-5-minute stretch break every 30 minutes of being on your device.
Essential Balance, LLC takes a multifaceted approach to helping you achieve your health. Our specially trained licensed massage therapists have years of education and experience in Medical, orthopedic, oncology, Myofascia, craniosacral, pre-surgical, post-surgical and sports treatments. Our therapists use their unique skills along with cutting edge technology to help you achieve balance in your body and life. Essential Balance, LLC utilizes the 3 in 1 Infrared cabin with near, mid and far infrared wavelengths to assist in increasing circulation, decreasing inflammation, decreasing joint and muscle pain, detoxification, and even weight loss, all while you relax, watch Netflix or utilize the sound therapy settings. We all need to take time to focus on restoring harmony and function to our bodies. Come let the soft tissue experts help you achieve your balance. Be one of the first 50 people to mention this article and get a free 2 oz “Pain Tamer” all-natural pain relief cream consisting of a special blend of essential oils, arnica and CBD oil.
For more information or to schedule your first appointment with free postural evaluation call 302-861-6353.
Take the Path of Natural Healing
Medical & Wellness Massage Center
Sports, Medical, Myofascial, Craniosacral, Structural Integration, Neuromuscular & Relaxation Massage Therapy
Dawn Uncapher, Essential Balance, LLC
1450 Capitol Trail, Suite 104, Shops at Red Mill
Newark, DE 19711
302-861-6353
