Is Text Neck Causing Me Back Pain?

Have you ever entered a train where everyone has their head down, peering into their phones? This is a common sight in Hong Kong, and is an illustration of an emerging health concern: text neck. This term refers to the strain on our necks from the forward head posture we often adopt while using our devices.

At ATLAS, we are dedicated partners in your journey to holistic well-being. We believe in providing comprehensive care by delving into the root causes. One of the most common consequences of text neck and prolonged screen use is recurring afternoon headaches. If you experience headaches that build predictably through the workday, our article on why you get headaches at work every afternoon explains the cervical mechanics and daily habits behind this pattern.

What is Text Neck and how does it affect me?

Bending your head to look at your phone strains the vertebrae and tissues in your neck, which may lead to chronic pain. This condition can occur not just from texting, but from using any digital device or engaging in activities that involve prolonged head bending. Bending the head at a 45 to 60 degree angle puts 50 to 60 pounds of stress on the neck, as opposed to the usual 10.

Symptoms include neck pain, frequent headaches, muscle stiffness and spasms in the neck, shoulder and back muscles, pain between the shoulder blades or in the back, jaw, arm, or hand, numbness and tingling in the arm and hand, and posture changes and balance problems.

How can we address this issue?

It will require a combination of lifestyle modifications, behaviour changes, and additional support. Always hold your phone above your nipple line to encourage a more neutral head posture. Stretching and neck-strengthening exercises can help reduce neck pain and enhance flexibility.

Chiropractic Care

Chiropractic care is highly effective in managing text neck. At ATLAS, assessment findings guide a care plan designed to correct the issue, alleviate symptoms, and restore nerve function.

Conclusion

Text neck can notably affect our health and result in long-term complications. Early awareness and prevention are key, and if necessary, chiropractic assessment should be sought to address the root cause.