Understanding Text Neck: The Tech-Induced Pain Epidemic

Another case of neck and back pain!!! It seems this is the new epidemic the world is battling with. Recently there have been great spikes in the number of patients suffering from chronic pain and headaches. And in most cases, the diagnosis remains the same as ‘Text Neck‘.

Researchers say that people who spend more than five hours every day looking at their phones are victims of a modern-day epidemic called Text Neck or Tech neck.

That ache on the back or a sprain on your neck; tightness across the shoulders or a chronic headache taking you down could be signaling the evolution text neck resulting from the constant slouching posture of your neck and back.

The time you spend watching videos, sending texts, playing games, strolling through e-stores, or checking your social media feeds, slipping into a position of comfort spending hours like a statue.

Before you know it, your head is hanging forward and your neck slouching down causing excessive strain on the neck and spine. The stress on the cervical spine increases exponentially and almost doubles with every inch the head tilts down.

This overuse syndrome or a repetitive stress injury, caused by gazing the gadgets for extended periods of time is the main cause of Text Neck as described by the founder of Text neck Dr. Dean L. Fishman.  Researchers at Harvard Medical Health predicted that 7 out of 10 people will experience neck aches at some point in their lives.  

Recent studies on this subject have linked Text Neck to chronic headaches, neurological issues, depression, and heart disease. Though this is not something that happens overnight they creep up slowly bit by bit every day pushing you to a path of pain and disdain.

Also Read: Memory foam pillows can heal your neck pain

Woes of Text Neck

• Upper back pain ranges from chronic, nagging pain to sharp, severe upper back muscle spasms.
• Shoulder pain and tightness, inflammation, and spasm.
• Chronic problems of headaches, depression, anxiety, stress
• Early onset of arthritis in the neck.

Text Neck in a harsh reality of the modern day that craves for your attention. If this is left untreated, a ‘text neck’ can lead to inflammation of the neck muscles, ligaments, and nerves, permanent arthritic damage, as well as increased curvature in the spine. 

9 ways of managing the gadget pain

1. Use a hands-free set for speaking on the phone.
2. Bring the phone up so you don’t tilt your head down.
3. Don’t use your phone for more than 30 minutes at a time
4. Hold your cell phone at eye level as much as possible. 
5. Take frequent breaks from your electronic gadgets.
6. Avoid prolonged static postures
7. Regular neck movements: rotations and side bending
8. Practice regular stretching, exercises, and yoga.
9. Use Ice/heat packs.
10. Massage to relieve spasms.

Last but not least, avoid using your phone!

So, next time your back screams in pain just say goodbye to your gadgets and indulge in some rejuvenating sessions.

Studies on Text neck

1. “Text Neck: A Growing Epidemic and the Role of Chiropractic” (2014) – This study discussed the increase in neck and upper back pain as a result of prolonged smartphone use, commonly referred to as “text neck.” The study found that chiropractic care can be effective in reducing symptoms associated with text neck.
   
2. “Text Neck: The Effects of Forward Head Posture on Neck Pain” (2015) – This study investigated the effects of prolonged forward head posture while using mobile devices on neck pain. Results showed a significant increase in neck pain and stiffness in those with prolonged forward head posture.
   
3. “Text Neck Syndrome: A Review of Literature” (2015) – This review analyzed existing research on the effects of prolonged smartphone use on neck and upper back pain. The study found that text neck syndrome is a growing concern and can lead to long-term spinal degeneration.
   
4. “The Effect of Text Neck on Range of Motion and Strength of the Neck and Shoulders” (2017) – This study investigated the impact of text neck on the range of motion and strength of the neck and shoulders. Results showed a significant decrease in range of motion and strength in individuals with text neck syndrome.
   
5. “Text Neck and Its Association with Pain, Disability, and Physical Impairments” (2018) – This study analyzed the relationship between text neck and pain, disability, and physical impairments. Results showed a significant association between text neck and increased neck and upper back pain, as well as decreased functionality in daily activities.