The Messages Your Neck Is Sending

We spend hours in front of the computer and on our smart devices responding to messages, however we're ignoring the ones sent to us by our bodies.

Too much texting and tilting your head down can become a pain in the neck for many. An excessive amount of leaning your head forward and down, can result in what some people call "Text Neck." 

"Text Neck" is defined as overuse syndrome involving the head, neck and shoulders, usually resulting from the repetitive use and strain on the spine from looking in a downward position.  This abnormal position increases stress on the muscles, causes fatigue, muscle spasms, and even stress headaches.  For every degree of motion to the front or side that you move your head, the stress on your neck is magnified beyond just the weight of the head.  And long-term increased stress on the other structures in your neck, such as the discs and joints, can have negative effects.

Here are a few suggestions to help avoid "Text Neck":

• Modify the position of the device and hold at a neutral, eye level, instead of always looking down.
• Take breaks and change or alter your position.
• Engaging in routine exercise promotes a strong, flexible back and neck, reducing the effects of "text neck" or any repetitive stress on the musculoskeletal system.
• Commit to regular Spinal Adjustments as well as regular Therapeutic Massage to correct the forward head position, and neck/shoulder tension created by repetitive texting.

To read more:

Your Smartphone Is A Pain In the Neck (CNN.com)

How Texting Can Give You A Permanent Pain In The Neck (Forbes.com)

Computer-Related RSI & Kids (KidsHealth.org)

Is "Text Neck" already a pain in your... well, neck? Try our Spinal Health Special treatment combo this month!