#THIRDTHURSDAY: Tech Neck Unplugged: Preventing Pain in the Digital Age (March 2025)

As screen time increases, so does the prevalence of "Tech Neck"—a modern musculoskeletal disorder resulting from prolonged forward head posture and poor ergonomics. This #THIRDTHURSDAY presentation is designed for physical therapists seeking to enhance their expertise in diagnosing and managing this condition.

Participants will explore the anatomy and pathophysiology of Tech Neck, gaining a deep understanding of the musculoskeletal and neurological implications of sustained cervical strain. The course will cover comprehensive clinical assessment strategies, including postural analysis, range of motion testing, and special tests to classify the severity of the disorder.

Emphasis will be placed on evidence-based treatment approaches, including manual therapy techniques, therapeutic exercises, postural retraining, ergonomic modifications, and patient education. Additionally, participants will learn how to develop individualized treatment plans tailored to various patient presentations.

By the end of this course, attendees will be equipped with the knowledge and practical skills necessary to effectively assess, diagnose, and treat Tech Neck, improving patient outcomes in both clinical and preventative settings.

Dr. Fred Kassal, PT, DPT, CMT, OCS shares insight and expertise on "Tech Neck Unplugged: Preventing Pain in the Digital Age."

What to expect: 

Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to:

• Identify the biomechanical and physiological effects of prolonged screen use and poor posture on the cervical spine, shoulders, and thoracic spine.
• Differentiate between musculoskeletal, neurological, and myofascial contributors to “Tech Neck” and related pain syndromes.
• Perform functional movement assessments to evaluate posture, mobility, and muscular imbalances in patients with screen-related pain.
• Implement targeted interventions, including manual therapy, neuromuscular re-education, and therapeutic exercise, to address postural dysfunction and pain.
• Develop patient-centered ergonomic recommendations and movement strategies to reduce strain and improve posture during screen use.
• Educate patients on self-care strategies, including posture awareness, movement breaks, and technology modifications, to prevent recurring pain.

About the Speaker: 

Dr. Fred Kassal, PT, DPT, CMT, OCS graduated from Saint Ambrose University, Davenport IA, in 2019 with his Doctorate in Physical Therapy. Following graduation, Dr. Kassal pursued an Orthopedic Residency program with Edward Hospital to become an Orthopedic Clinical Specialist, which he completed in 2021. Currently, Dr. Kassal is pursuing a certification in vestibular rehabilitation to focus primarily on pediatric vestibular rehabilitation. He also enjoys helping athletes, shoulder, hip, and knee pain.

Dr. Kassal is a Physical Therapist at Goodlife Physical Therapy in Orland Park, IL. He has a passion working with orthopedic conditions, chronic pain, vestibular rehab, and concussion rehab.. However, he is up for any challenge that a patient may come into the clinic with. Dr. Kassal is also currently the SCCE for student coordination and the lead on their concussion program for adolescents in the area.

Outside of the clinic, Fred loves to spend time outdoors, hiking, and playing sports. Some of hidden talents included country line dancing and snake breeding. He enjoys the winter season with hopes of daily snowfalls. In his free time he enjoys helping with Dance Marathon, which is an organization aimed at helping kids treated at local Children’s Hospitals.

This program was originally recorded March 20, 2025.

You can even earn 2 hours of CE (Self- Study):  

1. Purchase the recording by visiting IPTA's Virtual Library . (FREE FOR IPTA MEMBERS / CE Subscribers - log in to ipta.org so it knows who you are!) Non-member cost is $45. You can earn 1-2 hours of CE, depending on the length of program.
2. Once your transaction is completed, you will receive an email with a link to download a document containing a link to the online recording AND a link to a quiz to complete after you view the recording.
3. Watch the recording and complete the quiz. If you score 80% or better, you will receive an email notification of your CE award.  If you are an IPTA member/ CE Subscriber, your CE award will also post in your membership profile under Professional Development. If you are not yet a member, an CE certificate will be emailed to you within 7-10 business days.