What is Text Neck and How Do You Fix It?
Text neck is a modern malady that is causing growing concern among medical professionals. This condition occurs when an individual is hunched over their smartphone or other electronic devices for extended periods. The repetitive strain of the head and neck in a forward, downward position for any amount of time puts an excessive amount of pressure on the cervical spine. This can cause a range of problems such as neck pain, headaches, shoulder pain, and even reduced lung capacity. The problem with text neck is that it places a significant amount of additional weight and stress on the cervical spine. In fact, for every inch that the head is tilted forward, an additional 10 pounds of weight are added to the neck. This means that if an individual is holding their head in a downward position to look at their phone or tablet, their neck muscles are supporting the weight of the head and the additional pressure of the head’s angle, leading to neck pain.
The result of text neck is not just limited to pain in the neck region. The forward posture can cause strain and tightness in the neck, which can lead to muscle spasms that spread to the shoulders and upper back. The constant stress on the neck can also lead to headaches, migraines, and even nerve damage in extreme cases. However, even more concerning is the fact that text neck can alter the natural curvature of the spine. Normally, the spine has a natural curve that allows for shock absorption and load-bearing. Prolonged periods of time spent looking down at a phone or computer can cause the curvature to reverse. This can lead to spinal degeneration, which can be a permanent condition if not addressed properly.
When looking at a phone or tablet, it is essential to adjust the device’s height and angle so that it is at eye level. This will keep the head in a more neutral position, reducing the amount of stress on the cervical spine. Additionally, taking frequent breaks and stretching the neck can help relieve the strain and spasms associated with text neck. Another important measure to prevent text neck is to be mindful of posture throughout the day, not just when using electronic devices.
Regular exercise and posture-boosting activities like yoga can help strengthen the neck muscles and improve spinal alignment. Furthermore, as much as it may hurt, avoid sleeping on your stomach which can cause further strain in the neck region as the head must be turned to one side. It is important to note that text neck is not just a condition that affects adults.
Young children and teenagers are especially susceptible to developing this condition. As the use of smartphones and electronic devices becomes more prevalent in our society, this issue is only going to become more significant. In conclusion, text neck is a growing problem that is affecting millions of people worldwide.
The impact of this condition goes beyond pain and discomfort; it can lead to significant long-term spinal problems if not addressed. It is therefore essential to be mindful of posture and device usage, taking appropriate measures to reduce the strain placed on the neck muscles and spine.
If you need help, contact Orlando City Health and Wellness at (407) 504-0117 or by visiting our website.
