Context:

Adult 'tummy time' has emerged as a wellness trend on TikTok, with claims that lying on one's stomach for 10 or more minutes daily can improve posture and alleviate 'tech neck', a condition caused by prolonged device use. Experts support its benefits, as the prone position can strengthen neck muscles by counteracting the forward tilt associated with tech neck. Despite its advantages, adult tummy time isn't suitable for everyone, especially those with certain back conditions, recent surgeries, or during pregnancy. It is advised to start with small increments and gradually increase duration, but not exceed 30 minutes a day to avoid potential pain. While helpful, adult tummy time should be part of a broader approach to posture improvement, with additional strategies like using devices at eye level and incorporating movement breaks throughout the day.

Dive Deeper:

• Adult tummy time, popularized on TikTok, involves lying on the stomach for short periods daily, claiming to improve posture and relieve neck strain caused by prolonged device usage, commonly known as 'tech neck'.

• Physical therapists explain that adult tummy time works by promoting neck extension, which opposes the flexed posture from device use, thereby strengthening neck and back muscles and easing spinal stress.

• While adult tummy time can be beneficial, it is not recommended for individuals with certain medical conditions like spinal stenosis or those who are pregnant, as it may exacerbate their condition.

• Experts suggest starting with short durations of tummy time and gradually increasing to avoid potential low back and neck pain from prolonged use, recommending a maximum of 30 minutes a day.

• In addition to tummy time, experts recommend other posture-improving practices such as elevating devices to eye level, practicing exercises like wall angels, and taking regular movement breaks to effectively manage tech neck.

• Physical therapy exercises and prone positioning, similar to yoga poses like cobra and sphinx, have long been used to improve posture and alleviate pain, supporting the benefits of adult tummy time.

• While adult tummy time is beneficial, it should be part of a comprehensive strategy to address posture issues, as it alone cannot completely resolve tech neck or related discomforts.