Tech Neck May Cause Thyroid Issues In Women In The Long Run, Suggests Expert

Tech neck has become one of the most commonly discussed posture challenges of the digital era, particularly among women who juggle multiple roles and spend long hours on smartphones, laptops and tablets. While it is widely associated with cervical pain, headaches and upper-back stiffness, clinicians are now observing that this prolonged downward posture may also influence the delicate structures of the neck – including the thyroid gland.

Dr Pranav Ghody, Consultant Endocrinologist & Diabetologist, Wockhardt Hospitals, Mumbai Central, shares how tech neck might be affecting women, especially, and why this is a concern.

How is tech neck affecting women?

From an anatomical standpoint, the thyroid rests in the lower front of the neck, surrounded by

muscles, nerves, lymphatics and vascular networks. When the head is consistently bent forward at a 45–60 degree angle while looking at screens, the load on the neck muscles increases significantly. Over time, this mechanical strain can cause inflammation, muscular tightness and impaired circulation in the region. Although tech neck itself does not directly damage the thyroid, doctors believe that secondary physiological changes may influence thyroid function in subtle ways.

One of the emerging concerns is compromised blood flow. A chronically flexed neck position can tighten the sternocleidomastoid and scalene muscles, restricting venous drainage and arterial inflow to the thyroid bed. Poor circulation may affect glandular activity or interfere with efficient hormone transport. For women, who already have a higher predisposition to thyroid disorders due to hormonal fluctuations, pregnancy, postpartum changes and autoimmunity, this additional strain may contribute to imbalance.

Thyroid issues in women are more than just tech neck

Another consideration is inflammation. Long hours hunched over screens can lead to local tissue irritation and lymphatic congestion. Some endocrinologists suggest that persistent mechanical stress may aggravate pre-existing thyroid issues such as subclinical hypothyroidism, Hashimoto’s thyroiditis or nodular diseases. While evidence is still evolving, it adds to the broader understanding of how lifestyle habits interact with endocrine health.

Stress also plays a crucial role. Excessive screen time and poor posture stimulate the sympathetic nervous system, raising cortisol levels. Chronic stress is a known disruptor of thyroid hormone conversion, particularly the conversion of T4 to T3. Women who spend extended hours working on devices without adequate breaks may unknowingly create a loop of physical strain and hormonal disruption.

There is a solution to every problem

Doctors emphasise that the goal is not to alarm but to educate. Tech neck can be corrected with simple modifications: maintaining an upright posture, lifting devices to eye level, using ergonomic chairs, stretching every 30–40 minutes and strengthening the neck-back-shoulder complex. For women with existing thyroid conditions, incorporating posture management into daily routines can support better hormonal balance and symptom control.

It’s recommended to do annual thyroid screening for women with high digital exposure, especially those experiencing fatigue, weight fluctuations, hair fall, irregular periods or persistent neck discomfort.