Tech Neck & Bowen Therapy

Screens are a constant part of daily life now. Phones, tablets, and laptops are often used for long stretches at a time, sometimes without much thought to posture or how the body is being held.

Over time, this can start to show up as tension or discomfort through the neck, shoulders, and upper back. This is commonly referred to as tech neck, and it reflects the strain that can build when the head is held forward for prolonged periods during screen use.

What is Tech Neck?

Tech neck tends to develop gradually, often without noticing at first. As the head moves forward from its natural alignment, even slightly, it increases the load through the neck and surrounding muscles. When this position is repeated or held for long periods, the body can begin to feel the effects.

Rather than there being one “ideal” posture, it’s now understood that the body is designed to move and change positions regularly. Staying in one position for too long—especially when working at screens—can be more of a contributing factor than posture alone (Australian Journal of General Practice [AJGP], 2021).

People experiencing tech neck may notice ongoing tightness through the neck and shoulders, a feeling of stiffness when turning the head, or headaches that seem to build through the day. Some may also feel discomfort into the upper back or arms, particularly when tension has been present for some time (Mayo Clinic, 2023).

Where Bowen Therapy May Help

Bowen therapy is a gentle, hands-on approach that works with the body’s connective tissue and nervous system. Using light, precise movements followed by pauses, it gives the body time to respond in its own way and in its own time.

For those dealing with tech neck, Bowen therapy may help ease areas of built-up tension in the neck and shoulders, while also supporting the body to shift out of holding patterns that develop with prolonged screen use. Many people describe a sense of softening or release as the body begins to unwind.

Because the work is subtle, it doesn’t force change. Instead, it supports the body’s natural ability to recalibrate and find a more comfortable balance

To learn more about how this approach works, you can read more about Bowen therapy here.

Supporting Your Body Day to Day

There are also simple things that can help reduce strain through the day. Bringing screens up closer to eye level where possible, taking short and regular breaks, and changing position often can all make a difference over time.

It can also be helpful to move away from the idea of holding “perfect posture,” and instead think in terms of variety and awareness. Small shifts throughout the day are often more supportive than trying to stay in one corrected position.

A Gentle Reset

Tech neck is something many people are noticing more in modern life, especially with increased screen time and desk-based work. While it can feel persistent, it often reflects patterns the body has adapted to rather than something fixed.

With support, these patterns can gradually shift. Bowen therapy offers a calm and gentle way to assist this process, helping the body release tension and move back toward a sense of ease and balance.

References

Australian Journal of General Practice. (2021). Posture: Clinical concepts. Royal Australian College of General Practitioners. https://www1.racgp.org.au/ajgp/2021/november/posture-clinical-concepts

Mayo Clinic. (2023). Tech neck is a pain in more than just the neck. https://newsnetwork.mayoclinic.org/discussion/tech-neck-is-a-pain-in-more-than-just-the-neck/