Text Neck

Text neck is the term used to describe the neck pain and headaches you feel from looking down at your cell phone, tablet, too frequently and for too long.

 A recent study shows that 79% of the population between the ages 18 and 44 have their cell phones with them almost all the time—It is especially concerning because young, growing children could possibly cause permanent damage to their cervical spines that could lead to lifelong neck pain.

 Your head weighs between 10-12 pounds, every inch your head moves forward from its neutral position it creates about 6 times as much force. 

 The poor posture that texting can create can cause other health problems beyond headaches and upper back pain. Experts say that a forward head and hunched shoulders can reduce lung capacity by as much as 30 percent, and increase the risk for depression and heart disease.

 Using our portable devices and tablets is not going away, but there are some things you can do.

1.    Hold the device up to eye level instead of looking down.

2.    Take frequent breaks and bring your head back to a neutral position as often as you can.

3.    Stay generally active and fit.  You need a strong core to support your upper back and head, this includes the muscles of your shoulder girdle.

4.    Consider incorporating activities that stress good posture such as Foundation Training, Pilates and Yoga.