Do you find yourself staring down at your mobile “smart” phone for interminable hours? You might have what’s called “text neck.” It’s neck pain sustained in this context. It doesn’t matter if the device in question is a tablet, phone or any wireless device… basically you are staring at it for too long!
If a patient complains of severe back pain and specifically upper back pain it could be because s/he is sitting for hours hunched over the phone!
What are the symptoms related to text neck?
Text neck most ordinarily causes neck pain and irritation. What’s more, looking down an excessive amount every day can prompt:
- Upper back pain including sharp, extreme upper back muscle spasms.
- Shoulder pain and rigidity, bringing about excruciating shoulder muscle pain.
- In the event that a cervical nerve gets squeezed, pain and perhaps neurological indications can transmit down your arm and into your hand.
How normal is text neck?
An ongoing report shows that 79% of the populace between the ages 18 and 44 have their phones with them constantly—with just 2 hours of their waking day spent without their phone close by!
How is text neck avoided?
Ideally, you’ll want to avoid looking down at your device “so much…”
Hold your mobile phone at eye level. Similarly, for all touch screens, workstations and tablets, the screen should be at eye level so you don’t need to bend/twist your head forward or look down to see it.
Take frequent breaks from your telephone and PC for the duration of the day. For instance, set a clock or alert that reminds you to get up and walk around every 20 to 30 minutes.
In the event that you work in an office, make sure your screen is set up so when you look at it you are looking forward, with your head situated in-line with your shoulders and spine.
Go through an entire day being aware of your stance—is your head bent/twisted forward when you drive? When you stare at the TV? Any delayed period when your head is looking down is a point of time at which you are putting extreme strain on your neck.
Wrapping up:
If you are experiencing text neck and need some relief, make an appointment with New Tampa Chiropractic and Injury Center by calling 813-994-6111.