Tech Neck — 8 Great Products for Avoiding Pain and Strain

Tech neck
Tech neck


Credit:Pexels

Tech neck is a real problem. You might not know it right now, but if you're addicted to your smartphone or any gadget for extended periods of time, you may experience tech neck.

Continually bending and looking at your smartphone causes strain on the neck muscles. Tech neck leads to stress and pain, giving rise to further problems in your upper body muscles. If ignored, this problem worsens and leads to long-term damage to the neck and often the upper back too.

However, not all neck problems are tech neck. A neck pain might be a minor muscle issue or a temporary illness. How do you know if you indeed have tech neck? Do your symptoms point to tech neck? We look at how tech neck occurs, its symptoms, and also suggest products to improve your tech neck problems.

A Bit About Tech Neck

Of course with all of the technology in our lives, we all experience the occasional ache and pain. But how do you know if it's actually tech neck causing you problems? Before you invest in any tech neck product, get a fair understanding of why tech neck is becoming common, its health impact, and why you should avoid tech neck. Let's find out all about this pain in the neck:

What is tech neck?

If you regularly use electronic devices like laptop, tablets or smartphone, you probably ave the occasional sprain or pain in the neck. If that pain has remained for many days or it does not subside for weeks and months with a continuous nagging ache, it’s tech neck.

Tech neck problems are episodic, and they are more frequent than you would expect. You might want to relax on a day off but the mere thought of spending five minutes on your smartphone can be painful. The dull ache and sharp pains don’t seem to go away, and you resent most activities requiring you to move your neck.

How does tech neck affect your health?

Tech neck does not only affect your neck, as it does not work in isolation. Once you have it, it can impact other movements. It begins with the throbbing sensation in your neck. If it has been ignored for a long time, you might start feeling numbness or tension in your fingers. It might impact your daily activities and make routine quite challenging.

Headaches and migraines are other side-effects that may result. If too much screen-time is getting complicated with recurring headaches, it might probably be a side-effect of the tech neck. Another major issue noted with excessive gadget use is poor posture. When you bend to see anything on your screen, you are straining the neck muscles which can be dangerous for your spine.

Why should you avoid tech neck at all costs?

It’s natural that you want to be healthy at all times. However, lifestyle changes can put stress on your well-being. Routine activities might be affected, and at times you might have to depend on others to support you with some help. By taking the necessary care right at the start of tech neck, you can avoid reaching this stage.

Besides this, you will also be in a position to control the impact it has on your movement, family, and work. By avoiding activities that lead to tech neck you are prepared to keep yourself healthy and active for things you love to do.


Questions to Ask Before Buying Tech Neck Products:

Tech neck can hinder your daily work. Check this list of questions to see if tech neck products can alleviate your symptoms and things to consider before you search.

1. What technological products do I use that may contribute to tech neck?

If you use all or some of these tech gadgets, you are at risk for tech neck. Before you begin your search for the right product to support your neck, check your gadgets for their impact on your neck. 

Excessive use of tech products is known to cause negative impact on your body. Most often the smartphone you are using is causing constant strain resulting from looking down at the screen.

Maybe the tablet that is positioned awkwardly is causing you to adjust your neck to the screen. Or perhaps, sitting for long periods in front of the laptop is creating back and spine problems. Assess all of your devices to see where your neck is compensating.

2. How is my work environment contributing to tech neck?

Even though some offices now have standing desks, not all facilities have caught on to the wave. That means you might still be struggling with long hours at work sitting in one position or straining your neck on laptops, tablets, or smartphones.

If you work remotely, you might have the flexibility to work your hours when you like. But that doesn't mean you are not prone to tech neck. If you are used to sitting on your bed and staring at your screen, it might not be the best position to work. Get yourself a desk and a chair to take care of your neck and avoid tech neck.

3. How long has the tech neck been bothering me?

Monitor how long you have been suffering from tech neck. If there has been a nagging pain for a week or two, don’t jump to conclusions that quickly. You might not have treated it correctly.

Check for more things like how severe is the pain? Is it always in the same place or does is spread across your back at times? Is the neck pain triggered when you check your gadgets? By assessing these things, you can judge if your gadgets are causing the tech neck. 

4. Can a product resolve your tech neck issues?

Any pain in the body can be corrected with the right treatment. At times, this pain might not go with medication or regular treatment. Daily care can go a long way in reducing the stress and also bringing relief.

For tech neck issues, keeping the muscles relaxed with products that relieve any stress work overtime for relief. With regular usage, you also give your body the right care without any side-effects or dependency on regular doctor visits. It can save you money and provide the positive outcome you expect.

5. Are tech neck products right for you?

If you are often glued to your smartphone, holding your phone between your neck and ear, you are inviting neck problems. You could regularly be traveling or are over-dependent on gadgets for your work or leisure. Either way, your neck cannot take the continuous stress. If you believe the pain is a one-off thing, think again. The daily or weekly stress might not be temporary.

Taking immediate action to reduce this pain is essential. If you are too busy for medication or cannot decide if medical treatment is required, try some of the products that can lessen tech neck issues. They reduce impact on your neck and spine.


Things to Keep in Mind During Your Tech Neck Product Search

Not all products might be perfect for you. You need to be comfortable with the product that can ease your pain. The gadgets have to be easy to use and perfect for your needs.

The Tech You Use

A laptop might be your personal preference. Or perhaps a tablet suits you best as you travel frequently. Maybe you love your smartphone more than any other gadgets. Whatever you choose, keep in mind that it will need a product that suits the issue that comes with the use of these gadgets.

If you use a tablet, a cushion to support proper position might work well. If a laptop is your choice, then a flexible stand is something you should try. Let the products be an apt solution for your tech neck issues without hampering your use of your favorite gadget.

Price

When you have a health issue, the cost can be the last thing on your mind. But do check the price range of the product that can relieve you from tech neck. Irrespective of the price, it has to meet your tech neck issues and help solve the problem.

​Your Location Needs

While searching for the right product that can reduce the tech neck, consider where you would be using it. At home, to relax or work, you could use a comfortable massage chair. However, if you are traveling, a portable gel based pillow might work well. If you drive long distance in a day, then a phone holder in your car will be apt to sort that nagging tech neck.


​Best Products for Avoiding Tech Neck

You can control any further damage to your tech neck by treating it. Many products can ease the pain and avoid new tech neck problems in the long term.

1. Bestrix Magnetic Dashboard Phone Car Mount Holder

Tech Neck

Credit: Amazon

For regular drivers, it can be trouble to focus on the road and take calls simultaneously. Additionally, the strain on the neck is another hassle. Eliminate these worries with the Bestrix Magnetic Dashboard Mount. It has a luxurious look and is stylish. With smooth surfaces, you can leave your child safely in the front of the car without worrying about sharp edges on the holder.

The four-strong quality magnets hold the phone safely whether you have a rough or a smooth ride. The design is flexible and made with the best quality material. With this phone mount, you can avoid tech neck issues and have a smooth ride without worrying about missing any calls.

PROS:

  • plus
    Holds well even in hot conditions
  • plus
    ​Long lasting
  • plus
    ​Easy to install

CONS:

  • close

    Might not work for a wireless charger

2. VIVO Adjustable Standing 32" Converter Tabletop Desk

Tech Neck

Credit:Amazon

This desktop stand has a unique height feature that makes it great to sit or stand. Plus, it’s easy to assemble. The lifting mechanism makes for quick movement without having to make several adjustments. With a spacious surface area, there is adequate space for all kinds of monitors.

You can conveniently sit and stand without having to buy two different desks, thereby saving on costs. If you are used to working long hours and have tech neck issues, this is an ideal desk for you to avoid sitting in one position for long. You can quickly switch between sitting and standing without straining your neck.

PROS:

  • plus
    ​Easy to use for all monitors
  • plus
    ​Adjustable workstation
  • plus
    ​A quick transition from sitting to standing

CONS:

  • close
    ​The surface might be a bit big for cramped spaces/rooms

3. ​Flipy Multi-Angle Soft Pillow Lap Stand

Tech Neck


Credit:Amazon

This one is great for people who love to relax and work on their tablet. If leisure time demands comfortably sitting on the couch and watching your movies, you no longer have to strain your neck to watch. Use this soft, sturdy, and lightweight multi-angle pillow lap stand for iPads, tablets, eReaders, Smartphones, books, and magazines.

With its soft cushion, you can quickly place your gadget on it and relax your hand and fingers without having to hold the device. It reduces the strain on your hand and neck muscles making it easy to work or play. You can sit and do your work or relax hands-free for a great experience.

PROS:

  • plus
    ​Rotates in every angle
  • plus
    ​Compatible with most tablets
  • plus
    ​Ideal as a gift

CONS:

  • close
    ​Can be a bit bulky at times

4. ​HENGJIA Premium Therapeutic Grade Neck Support Cushion

Tech neck

Credit:Amazon

Along with its stylish look, the therapeutic grade neck pillow is ideal for carrying to eliminate tech neck issues. You can take it along for a stiff neck. It has a strap to keep it in your car as a headrest and perfectly align your head, neck, shoulders, and spine. The result is the ease of any pain and relaxation of your muscles. With a removable cover, you can do a machine wash. Its durable material makes it a lifelong companion for your home, office, or travel trips.

PROS:

  • plus
    ​Easy to carry everywhere
  • plus
    ​Designed for long use
  • plus
    ​Removable machine washable cover​

CONS:

  • close
    ​Might be small if you are used to large pillows

5. ​Mittagong Backrest Reading Pillow

Tech neck


Credit:Amazon

This backrest reading pillow has multiple uses. Use it while working on your laptop. Relax and place it as a backrest while watching television. Or give it to your kid while playing. It relaxes the neck, back, and spine, thereby releasing any tension that can strain your neck.

This large size pillow gives complete support for the back and arms. The removable cover can be washed and cleaned dry. It’s lightweight and easy to carry around making it easy for travel or movement at home.

PROS:

  • plus
    ​High-quality foam padding
  • plus
    ​Lightweight and easy to carry
  • plus
    ​Machine-washable cover

CONS:

  • close
    ​Can lean back a lot which might not be comfortable at times.

6. ​Giantex Full Body Massage Chair

Tech neck

Credit:Amazon

If you have a spacious place at home, this massage chair gives a complete body massage with vibration. Allow your back and foot relaxation to make you comfortable and pain-free. It provides heating therapy to the feet and 22 airbags to offer you ultra-relaxation.

This massage chair is an ideal place to relax at the end of the day. Spend a couple of minutes here and watch your tech neck ease with the soothing comfort to your entire body.

PROS:

  • plus

    14 fixed massage rollers

  • plus

    Adjustable Massage Speed

  • plus

    Quick Installation

CONS:

  • close

    Can take up a lot of space

7. ​Relaxzen 10-Motor Massage Seat Cushion

Tech neck


Credit:Amazon

This neck and lumbar support backrest chair is a vibration massager. You can place it at your office gym or in your home to comfortably ease your pain. The soothing heat treatment and memory foam make it easy to rest your neck and back without any strain. It comes along with AC and DC adapters for home and office and five pre-programmed massage modes that release tension.

PROS:

  • plus
    ​Soothing heating treatment
  • plus
    ​Soft polyester fabric
  • plus
    Durable

CONS:

  • close
    Only a vibration massager, not a kneading massager

8. ​Slow Rebound Gel Memory Pillow

Tech neck

Credit: Amazon

This gel memory pillow comes with soothing anti-allergen features to keep you safe from mold or dust mites. The gel in the pillow keeps it cool which is an excellent feature for the summers. If you suffer from severe tech neck or cervical issues, this is the perfect pillow to carry around.

The ergonomic design ensures it is suitable for anyone with back or neck problems. Given the portability it reduces sleep pain issues to give you a good night's sleep with little discomfort.

PROS:

  • plus
    ​Best to keep cool during summers
  • plus
    ​Foam is used on the surface of the pillows
  • plus
    ​Provides safety from allergens

CONS:

  • close
    ​Might be a bit large to carry around

Whether you are on the move or working from home, tech neck products can ease the discomfort and make life comfortable.

The cure for tech neck depends on the care you take. However, by using the right products to soothe discomfort goes a long way in keeping the pain in check. Protect your neck and spine by giving them the attention they deserve.

Did you find any of these products helpful? Share it with us in the comments! For those who are yet to find a solution to their tech neck problems, share this post to alleviate some pain!