Electronic Devices Cause Neck Pain and Tingling Hands

Dr Lori Goodsell, Chiropractor

Can phones and laptops cause neck pain and tingling hands?

Yes. Looking down at screens for long stretches strains your neck and can irritate nerves, leading to neck pain, headaches and tingling hands. The biggest fix is simple: take frequent breaks, ideally every 15 minutes, and get up and move in the middle of your day.

Why do my devices make my neck hurt?

I have a smartphone, an iPad, a Kindle and several laptops. I'm not a techie, yet my devices still act like the world's best temptress, and the more I use them, the more my neck hurts. I can't imagine what it's like for people whose work and hobbies both revolve around screens.

What's the best way to prevent neck pain from devices?

After 27+ years as a chiropractor in Plymouth, my top two tips are:

1. Take frequent breaks. In a perfect world, look at a screen for 15 minutes at most before moving and doing something else. That may not be realistic at work, so do your best there and follow the rule at home.

2. Get active midday. Leave the office for lunch, take a walk or fit in a workout. A break from sitting helps your body feel better, helps you manage stress and gives your mind room to be creative.

How should I use my phone, tablet and e-reader?

• iPad: keep emails short. Hunt-and-peck typing will make your keyboarding teacher cringe, but your wrists and elbows will thank you.

• Kindle: turn it horizontally into landscape mode. If reading is your main hobby, get the large Kindle instead of the purse-size one I have. It's easier to hold, strains your elbows and wrists less and is easier to prop up.

• Smartphone: notice how much time you spend looking down, and ask whether it can wait until you're at your computer. Don't read long documents, answer long emails or game for long on your phone.

Here's a short video on how to prevent and help "text neck."

Is there more to it than posture?

Yes. When you're on your devices, you aren't connecting with the people you love. Don't let screens come between you. They also keep you from being active, and it's tough to exercise if you won't pry yourself away.

When should I see a chiropractor for neck pain or tingling hands?

If you have neck pain, headaches or tingling hands, you probably have irritated nerves, and it's worth an exam. If you notice weakness, or numbness that doesn't go away, see a doctor promptly. Call us at 763-553-0387. Voted Best Chiropractic Clinic in Plymouth, 2024 Sun Newspapers Readers' Choice Awards.

FAQ

What is text neck?

Neck strain from looking down at a phone or tablet for long periods. It can cause neck pain, stiffness and headaches.

Why do my hands tingle after using my computer or phone?

Tingling often means nerves in the neck, arms or wrists are irritated by posture and repetitive use. It's worth getting examined.

How often should I take a break from screens?

Ideally every 15 minutes. At work, do your best, and get up and move in the middle of the day.

How can I read on a Kindle without neck pain?

Turn it to landscape mode, prop it up instead of looking down, and consider a larger model if you read a lot.