Are you experiencing tension between your shoulders, headaches, neck pain, or discomfort? Do you spend a lot of time looking downward at your computer, phone or mobile device for extended periods of time?
Then you, my friend, may have what Charlotte chiropractors today are referring to as “text neck” syndrome.
What is “text neck” syndrome?
“Text neck” syndrome is what happens as a result of overusing your neck, back, and shoulder muscles, usually when looking forward and downward for extended periods on any mobile device or object such as a cell phone, computer, e-reader, or tablet. Sitting or standing in this position puts a lot of strain on your spine. While technology adds a great amount of convenience to our lives, it can also create enormous amounts of pain and eventual health problems as the curvature in your spine puts pressure on the nerve signals needed for optimal bodily function.
The average adult head weighs 10-12 pounds! You can imagine how tilting the face down increases the gravitational pull on the back of the head. The total force exerted on an adult head when viewing electronics at a 60-degree angle forward is equivalent to your muscles carrying 60 pounds of weight. In turn, this posture creates pain patterns—but even worse, it degenerates the spine. Long-term forward neck posture may lead to muscle strains, disc herniations or pinched nerves. These strains on your body are bound to take a toll on your health over time, especially with the amount of time most people spend on electronic devices.
Are you sitting up straight while reading this?
As a professional Charlotte chiropractor, I hope so! Spending extensive amounts of time on your phone may be causing you neck pain, headaches, numbness, and tingling that goes all the way into your fingertips. It may also be causing tension between your shoulders and affecting your overall health in ways you can’t see right now.
How to minimize your chances of developing “text neck” syndrome:
- Set boundaries! This means no looking at your phone during meals, no texting while in the car or at work, and no using your mobile device while in bed. (That just means more cuddle time with your spouse or significant other!)
- Maintain proper posture while using technology. Make sure you’re sitting and standing up straight with your head directly on top of your shoulders and spine, your belly tucked in, and your back slightly arched. When looking at yourself in the mirror, your ears, shoulders, and hips should always be in a straight line.
- See a Charlotte chiropractor and get adjusted. If you haven’t had your spine checked for proper alignment, make an appointment with your local chiropractor to get an X-ray and schedule regular adjustments.
As your Charlotte chiropractor, I want you to be the healthiest you can be, so you can live a long, vibrant life. So put the phones down and connect face-to-face with those around you! If you, a friend or a family member needs their neck checked for “text neck” syndrome, feel free to make an appointment with our team by calling us at: 980-422-2000.