The Unfortunate Reality of Text Neck: What You Need to Know

With our lives seemingly becoming more and more dependent on the use of technology, one of the unfortunate realities that has arisen is a condition known as “Text Neck”. This modern-age ailment affects millions of people worldwide as they spend hours upon hours staring down at their phones, tablets, or laptops, leading to neck strain and pain. Today we will explore what text neck is, prevention, and remedies for those already suffering from it.

What is Text Neck?

Text neck is a condition with poor posture due to the habitual use of digital devices, such as phones and tablets, which can lead to strain on the cervical spine. It is characterized by an increased curvature of the upper back and neck due to extended periods spent in a hunched-over position while looking down at one’s phone or other device. What may begin as a simple annoyance can become an acute and chronic condition over time, leading to neck pain, headaches, shoulder tension, and even upper back pain.

Symptoms

Text neck symptoms commonly include one or more of the following:

• Pain in the neck, upper back, and/or shoulder. This pain may be located in one specific spot and feel intense or stabbing, or it may be a general achiness and soreness that covers a broader region, such as spanning from the bottom of the neck and into the shoulder(s).
• Forward head posture and rounded shoulders. Muscles in the neck, chest, and upper back can become deconditioned and imbalanced due to prolonged forward head posture. This deconditioning can make it difficult to maintain good posture with the ears directly over the shoulders.
• Reduced mobility. The neck, upper back, and shoulders may all experience some tightness and reduced mobility.
• Headache. Muscles at the base of the neck could go into spasm and become painful, or pain could also be referred from the neck up into the head. Excessive amounts of time looking at screens, regardless of posture, may also increase the risk for eyestrain and headache.
• Increased pain when neck flexion. Text neck symptoms tend to worsen when the neck is flexed forward into the position that originally caused the problem, such as while looking down and texting.

Can it Lead to Chronic Pain?

Unfortunately, yes. Text neck is a condition that can easily become chronic if left untreated for too long. The longer the head is flexed forward and downward, the more strain and pressure is placed on the cervical spine. This can lead to changes in the normal curvature of the spine. Thus, resulting in increased stress on nearby muscles, nerves, joints, ligaments, and discs. Over time, this can cause inflammation, pain, and decreased range of motion in the neck.

How Can Text Neck Be Prevented?

Fortunately, there are preventative steps that can be taken to avoid or minimize text neck related issues. Regular stretching of the neck and upper back muscles will help maintain mobility and flexibility while also reducing tension. Incorporating good posture habits into your daily routine is also essential. It is important to remember that the ears should be directly in line with the shoulders when sitting or standing tall. This posture should be maintained while engaging in any type of digital activity.

Chiropractic Care for Neck Pain

The treatment depends on the severity of the pain. For immediate relief, Advanced Chiropractic and Rehab offers injections that soothe inflammation and release tension without affecting the rest of the body or mind. Treatments for chronic pain linked to an old injury include:

• Manual therapy from the chiropractor to reset misalignment
• Massage and stretching to loosen up tight muscles
• Relaxation techniques to help tension melt away
• Chiropractic adjustments
• Chronic pain management treatments to help you avoid both medications and surgery
• Corrective care for the cervical spine to help restore the curve

Pain Relief at Home

In addition to professional treatment, there are many at-home remedies that can help relieve the discomfort of text neck. Taking frequent breaks from using digital devices is a great way to reduce strain and allow the muscles in the neck and upper back to relax. During these periods of respite, it is important to look up rather than down, and maintain good posture while doing so. Additionally, applying a cold or hot compress to the neck and shoulders can help alleviate tension and reduce pain. Finally, performing simple exercises that stretch out the neck muscles can be beneficial as well.

Make an Appointment with Advanced Chiropractic & Rehab

If you’re experiencing neck pain or text neck symptoms, don’t wait any longer to receive treatment. Contact Advanced Chiropractic & Rehab and make an appointment. We will work with you to create a personalized treatment plan that addresses your individual needs and works towards restoring full health and function in the neck area. Through our advanced treatments and experience, you can begin feeling better in no time! Don’t let text neck ruin your daily life – book an appointment with Advanced Chiropractic & Rehab today!