Trouble with neck pain? Neck pain is a common issue seen in most people because of the changing work culture. Because of the increased screen time and busy lifestyle, most ones tend to get back pain. This condition of spending hours in front of the screen causes conditions like poor posture.
Many people tend to continue bad postures for their neck and tend to form chronic discomfort. And in time untreated neck pain can lead to nerve compression, reduced mobility, and chances of increased risk such as herniated discs. Understanding the risks behind using screens over time and adopting healthier digital practices is the first step that one can take.
With the help of Ayurveda, an ancient form of natural healing system in India is recognized as one of the ways to heal by following simple ways to remove this discomfort. To ease the pain you just have to follow a few daily routines, practice mindful techniques, and use mindful techniques. Following ayurvedic treatment from good Ayurveda clinics such as Ayurheritage which is one of the best Ayurvedic center in Dubai and is the best way to improve the well-being of one.
This blog on “Tech Neck: How Screen Time is Damaging Your Neck and How to Fix It “ will take you through details of how screen time is affecting your neck’s health and how one can heal through ayurveda.
Postural strain and spinal imbalance occur when the head tilts forward for long periods while using digital devices. The human head weighs approximately 10 to 12 pounds when in a neutral position; however, in a 45-degree forward posture, the head can pull down up to 50 pounds of force onto the cervical spine. This is an abnormal position and can result in a ‘chicken head’ above the threshold posture. This fisheries Irish posture tends to hurt the spine over time as movement in the spheroids is lost and simultaneously, the muscle under the head that is responsible for lifting can get fatigued. During the acute phases of pain, it leads to chronic pain later on along with no flexibility left within the body and greater blurred bones present on the surface of the spine crashing herniates with the discs, which cause nerve root damage.
From an Ayurvedic perspective, the use of screens for longer durations aggravates the Vata dosha which is responsible for movement, dryness and is even a part of the nervous system. A sedentary lifestyle with Vata invites excessive use of devices which spiral deeper into muscle spasms throughout the body and stiffness right at the joints, leading to discomfort and pain in upper body. It also increases the ratio of dysfunctional cranial nerves leading to over fatigue of the upper body and rotatory hypoxia on the brain leading to numbness in the shoulder and neck. Once Vata shifts from balance disequilibrium of dry bone tissue abuse, giving room for muscles to wrap around chronic neck pain, tension headache associated with the end result of reduction in structural strength in the bones almost completely blurring alongside the discs at the surface of the spine.
The complication matters further, ignoring tech neck can lead to neck pain and stiffness that is chronic in nature. The neck and the brain may not adequately receive oxygen and nutrients, resulting in circulation fatigue alongside tension headaches. Other consequences can include reduced movement or flexibility of the shoulders and the spine. Addressing symptoms early on with Ayurvedic practices can help restore balance to the body and minimize damage.
Ayurvedic Remedies to Fix Tech Neck
There is no question that Ayurveda has a wide range of therapies that can be harnessed to treat tech neck. However, losing sight of the burden of pain or discomfort is where several practitioners go wrong. With tech neck, Ayurveda attempts to fix the problem by eliminating the primary source/proof of burden, which, in this case, is pain.
Herbal treatment plays a vital role in Ayurveda. It is aided by the use of Mahanarayana Thailam and Dhanwantharam Thailam which are herbal-infused oils. These oils will aid in lessening swelling, muscle nutrition, and boosting blood flow. A self-massage with these medicated oils on a daily basis can achieve the desired results. Some specific herbs also have effects on relieving pain. Ashwagandha helps in muscle development as well as nerve enhancement. Guggulu has pain-relieving as well as detoxifying effects that lead to less stiffness and inflammation. Turmeric has a great reputation for having a lot of anti-inflammation qualities that aid in relieving pains in the muscles and combat stiffness in joints.
Ayurvedic procedures are very beneficial for the relief of the symptoms of tech neck and the restoration of balance to the body. Abhyanga ayurvedic oil massage helps to enhance the blood circulation, relaxes the muscle and nourishes the spine. Kati Basti and Greeva Basti are specific procedures where warm medicated oil is applied onto the lower back or neck in a more focused way, to allow for deeper absorption and nourishment of the area. Another simple but effective procedure which helps cleanse the body of the toxic substances that cause inflammation is panchakarma detox, which helps restore the musculoskeletal system.
Diet and lifestyle adjustments play a crucial role in balancing Vata dosha. Ayurveda recommends consuming warm, nourishing foods such as soups, ghee, nuts, and root vegetables to keep the body hydrated and lubricated. Herbal teas, such as ginger, tulsi, or licorice tea, support muscle relaxation and improve circulation. Maintaining mindful screen use by keeping devices at eye level, taking frequent breaks, and using ergonomic furniture can also help reduce strain on the neck. Regular movement, such as stretching and posture awareness, is essential to prevent stiffness and pain.
Yoga and pranayama help correct posture and strengthen neck muscles. Certain yoga poses are especially beneficial for tech neck. Bhujangasana, or Cobra Pose, strengthens the spine and relieves tension in the neck and shoulders. Marjariasana, or Cat-Cow Pose, improves flexibility and releases stiffness in the cervical spine. Tadasana, or Mountain Pose, helps realign posture and reduce strain on the neck. Breathwork, such as Nadi Shodhana (alternate nostril breathing) and Bhramari (humming bee breath), calms the nervous system and improves blood flow to the affected areas.
Tech neck can be improved by adopting home remedies along with lifestyle changes, however, some cases will require assistance from a professional. Additional steps should be undertaken in the event that the pain continues to persist. Indicators that suggest one might require Ayurvedic treatment include severe and continuous neck pain, loss of sensation along with tingling in the arms or hands, recurrent headaches of dizziness as a result of strain in the neck, and restricted range of motion in the neck or rigidity. An Ayurvedic practitioner can design a treatment approach suited for the individual’s unique dosha constitution in context to their lifestyle and specific symptoms.
Ayurveda can greatly assist in both the prevention and remedying of Tech Neck, which is especially pertinent given that screen time is now an inseparable aspect of everyday life. People can safeguard their neck health by incorporating herbal remedies, therapeutic massages, changes in diet, and mindful movements to reestablish equilibrium in their bodies. Rather than waiting for long to become a chronic reoccurring issue, these fundamentals of Ayurvedic medicine should be emphasized in one's daily practices. Adopting a holistic approach to stem issues not only improves the pain but also aids the individual to live in the digitally capable world while remaining healthy.
For good well-being, contact Ayurheritage, an Ayurvedic hospital in Dubai and let’s keep our body healthy.
