Let’s talk about something most parents don’t even realize is happening right in front of them—tech neck.
If you’ve got a teenager, chances are they’re on their phone or tablet for hours a day. Head down, shoulders slumped, eyes locked on the screen. Maybe you’ve even noticed a shift in their posture—head tilted forward, a subtle hump forming at the base of the neck.
This isn’t just a “bad habit.” According to Dr. Pompa, this is what’s known as anterior head syndrome, and it can lead to much deeper issues than just poor posture.
When your child spends hours with their head pulled forward, it begins to shift the natural curve of the cervical spine. The body adapts to this posture, but not in a good way. Over time, the head moves further in front of the shoulders, placing tremendous strain on the neck and upper back.
But here’s where it gets serious: this forward head position tethers the spinal cord. Think of it like pulling a cord too tightly—it stretches the delicate spinal tissue and puts pressure on the nervous system.
This tension on the spinal cord can affect neurological function, which plays a direct role in immune health, hormonal regulation, and even emotional balance.
So no, this isn’t just about “slouching.” It’s about preserving long-term neurological and systemic health.
Let’s be real—most teens (and adults!) spend 6–8 hours a day or more on screens. And unless you’re intentional about posture, that time adds up to years of spinal damage.
The long-term effects? Chronic tension, neck pain, headaches, reduced lung capacity, poor focus, and even early disc degeneration.
Start by raising the device to eye level. Dr. Pompa recommends using a pillow or two under your arms when sitting or lying down to hold the device at face height. This one simple shift changes the angle of the head and helps maintain proper alignment.
When the eyes look straight ahead, the spine follows. This instantly reduces tension in the neck and back and eliminates the downward pull on the spinal cord.
Also, limit prolonged screen time without breaks. Encourage your teen to get up, move around, and stretch their neck and shoulders every 30–60 minutes.
And here’s the kicker—tech neck doesn’t just look bad… it feels bad. It affects mood, energy, and even confidence. Teaching your teen proper posture now sets them up for a healthier future, free from chronic issues caused by modern tech habits.
Tech neck might seem like a small thing—but it’s not. According to Dr. Pompa, it can be one of the most overlooked threats to your child’s long-term health.
So fix the posture. Keep the head up. Hold the phone at eye level. It’s not just a better look, it’s better health.
To learn more about Dr. Pompa and the Pompa Program, check out the website.
Disclaimer: Dr. Daniel Pompa is an expert health coach, author, speaker, trainer, and family man on a mission to bring answers to a hurting world.
Information provided is for general purposes and not intended to provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please seek the advice of a healthcare professional for your specific health concerns. Individual results may vary. Statements are not intended to diagnose, prevent, treat, or cure any disease.
