As students head back to school, many will spend hours each day on laptops, tablets and smartphones, both in and out of the classroom. Orthopedic specialists at Houston Methodist are seeing a growing number of children and teens experiencing neck pain, poor posture, headaches and upper back discomfort linked to excessive screen use, often referred to as "tech neck."

 

"Technology is an essential part of how students learn today, and it's not going away," said Dr. Mark Prasarn, orthopedic spine surgeon at Houston Methodist. "The key is making sure we're developing healthy habits alongside that technology. Spending hours looking down at screens can place significant stress on the neck, shoulders and upper back, but simple changes like improving posture, taking regular movement breaks and staying physically active can go a long way. Small adjustments now can help students stay comfortable, focused and healthy throughout the school year and beyond."

 

Houston Methodist experts are available to discuss:

  • How screen time affects the developing spine and musculoskeletal system
  • Common warning signs parents should watch for
  • The long-term impact of poor posture habits
  • Practical steps families can take to reduce strain and prevent injury
  • Healthy technology habits for the school year
  • Practical guidance on posture, movement, conditioning and recovery strategies that help students stay healthy both in the classroom and on the field

“As technology becomes an increasingly central part of students' daily lives, we hope it will raise awareness of actions parents can take to promote healthy habits among children,” Prasarn said. 

 

To schedule an interview, contact Maryssa Silva, senior media relations specialist at Houston Methodist, at 346-864-1699 or msilva@houstonmethodist.org. For more information about Houston Methodist, visit our newsroom or our social media pages on X, Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram and TikTok or our On Health and Leading Medicine blogs.