Leaning While Texting May Result in Health Problems

Recent increases in the number of patients suffering from upper-back and neck pain may be related to poor posture during prolonged smartphone use. Many young people are reporting herniated disks and alignment problems. As these health issues more so typically affect middle-aged and elderly people, the new surge of problems in youth may have to do with the way the neck bends when a person is texting. The normal curvature of the neck is reversed when people look down, such as when using and viewing a phone. Overtime, continuation of this unnatural position leads to stresses and imbalances in the supporting tissues of the neck and upper back. Pain, soreness, fatigue and even reversal of the normal curvature of the neck and upper back can occur. Given that some young people text for hours a day, it’s no wonder experts are seeing an increase in neck and back issues.  Studies show the problem is present mainly when people use mobile devices, as using laptops doesn’t require any abnormal or unnatural posture. The 45-degree angle many people hold their neck at while texting on mobile devices can lead to issues which may become even worse if the person is sitting. This impact on the back worsens at higher flexed postures. With a 15-degree flex, the head (which weighs roughly 10-12 pounds) can feel over twice as heavy. The stress increase on the spine can lead to a 60-degree flex feeling like an additional 60 pounds of pressure. There is a serious concern among professionals about the effects this will have on young people.   Fortunately, doctors of chiropractic are specifically trained to evaluate and treat neck and back issues. If you or a loved one is suffering from neck and/or back issues including those that may be related to the use of a phone, book a no obligation consultation today!