Massage Therapy Journal Winter 2025

Winter 2025 • 45

AMTA Continuing Education

further straining muscles and ligaments, as well as compressing nerve pathways. Lower down, the hip flexors and gluteal muscles that are weakened and overstretched from prolonged sitting can contribute to lumbar hyperlordosis (an exaggerated inward curve of the lower back), which further disrupts spinal alignment and impacts the neck even more. The atlanto-occipital joint, which connects the base of the skull to the spine, is particularly vulnerable during prolonged sitting when combined with device use. A study from MDPI 10 found that sitting while using a smartphone caused significantly greater flexion at this joint compared to standing or walking. The added pressure and flexion angles were notably higher in seated positions, further underscoring how even relaxing activities like scrolling or gaming can contribute to cumulative strain and postural imbalances. A sedentary lifestyle often creates hip flexors that are both contracted and weak. Rehabilitation for these muscles requires more than just stretching. Strengthening is also essential to restore function and support proper posture. Often, clients may not even realize that muscles can be both shortened and weak simultaneously, a concept called “adaptive shortening.” Helping clients understand this concept will improve adherence to home care exercises and ultimately lead to better outcomes. Movement breaks throughout the day are essential to counteracting the negative effects of prolonged sitting. Encouraging clients to set a timer and get up and move for at least five minutes every 30–60 minutes can significantly improve circulation, reduce muscle tension, and prevent the progressive tightening of the hip flexors and hamstrings. Standing desk adjustments, walking during calls, and incorporating simple stretching or dynamic movements during breaks are effective ways to introduce regular movement into sedentary routines. These intentional movement breaks are particularly beneficial for preventing tech neck Strengthening and Movement Recommendations for Clients

symptoms and relieving some acute pain and tension, but they require forming a new self-care habit. Gradually, this can be integrated as a regular part of client education and check-ins. A More Holistic Approach—Considering the musculoskeletal condition—this condition represents the merging of physical, social and psychological health in the modern digital age. Prolonged device usage affects not only posture, but also mental well-being. New research is repeatedly highlighting the fact that technology overuse is clearly linked to heightened perceptions of stress and anxiety, along with reduced emotional intelligence— two of the negative psychological effects that are becoming increasingly prevalent alongside the physical complaints of tech neck syndrome. These factors may be less talked about, but they are crucial puzzle pieces in the full picture of mind–body wellness. A 2024 study observed a significant correlation between prolonged screen use and increased rates of psychiatric symptoms, including anxiety, depressive disorders and other stress related conditions. This effect is particularly concerning for younger individuals, whose neural development may be shaped by excessive device use and potentially lead to altered social behavior patterns and impaired development of emotional intelligence. The psychological effects of technology overuse are intricately tied to the physical manifestations of tech neck, creating a powerful negative feedback loop of discomfort and emotional strain. When individuals spend extended periods engaging with devices, the need for face-to face social interaction often diminishes. Over reliance on digital communication may hinder the development of emotional intelligence skills, particularly the ability to perceive and respond to nonverbal cues. Emotional intelligence depends on in-person interactions that involve reading voice tone, body language and facial expressions. Mind-Body Connection Tech neck syndrome is more than a

A 2024 study observed a significant correlation between prolonged

screen use and increased rates of psychiatric symptoms, including anxiety, depressive disorders and other stress- related conditions.

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