What is “Text Neck Syndrome”?
Using our necks to tilt our head downward to look at things is normal – it’s one of the many we move our heads. However, as we depend more and more on mobile devices to find information and communicate with each other, our necks can develop a habit of repeatedly staying bent for longer periods of time and may change structures in our necks and backs that lead to pain and postural issues. This is often called “Text Neck Syndrome”.
Why is it a problem?
Text neck syndrome is a growing concern affecting a large number of people all over the world. Text neck directly affects how the spine supports the weight of the head. The lower we tilt our heads forward the heavier our head becomes for our spine to carry! So while tilting our heads forward just 60 degrees making our heads effectively 60lbs heavier that what our necks should carry. Long-term text neck can bring upon inflammation in the neck ligaments, muscles and nerves that can potentially become permanent is left untreated. Studies have reported that high prevalence of neck-shoulder pain symptoms are a result of text neck. Even more surprising many people who have text neck don’t know they have it.
What Can Be Done?
The simplest thing we can do to avoid text neck syndrome is to raise our mobile devices up to eye level so that we don’t need to bring our head down at all. Additionally, we want to avoid keeping our necks from staying in any one position for too long, moving our necks around more often keeps our joints strong and healthy.
A valuable exercise we would prescribe are chin tucks:
Sit or stand upright while looking straight ahead Gently nod your chin as if saying “yes” Hold for 5 seconds if possible Repeat 10 times, or as tolerated.
With proper form, chin tucks help to keep the head in good alignment with the spine while improving the neck’s function through strength and flexibility.
Notice this pattern in your everyday life? Please give Reneu Health Inc. a call!
We are a team of experienced clinical kinesiologists who specialize in preventive and rehabilitative exercise for seniors. We believe that aging is part of a beautiful journey and everyone deserves to live their best life. We understand that as our bodies get older, it doesn’t function the same. As some see this as a limitation, we see it as an opportunity. With the right mindset, knowledge, tools and support we help improve quality of life, slow the progression of certain conditions and help you take control of your health.
Call us today for a free consultation. San Diego 619.263.0329 or Orange County 949.245.6239.
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