Nowadays, having a cellphone with solid internet access is essential, whether for school, work, or everyday life. Unfortunately, too much time on your phone can cause several injuries, including “text neck.”
Text or tech neck occurs from looking down at your phone or other electronic devices for extended periods. Text necks can lead to eye strain and cause pain and straining in your neck muscles and ligaments, headaches, and migraines. Eventually, text neck can also affect the cervical spine, placing more stress on your neck and shoulders.
If left untreated, it can lead to several uncomfortable feelings. So why should you book an appointment at your local chiropractic clinic immediately? What are the warning signs?
The Creaking Warning Signs
Like other conditions, the signs and symptoms of text neck may vary depending on the severity. However, the Spine Wellness Center states that people should keep an eye on the common creaking signs of a text neck: headaches, pain in the neck and shoulders, eye strains, and shoulder pain and tightness. Fortunately, your local chiropractic clinic can help you with this condition.
Though the signs may differ from one person to another, permanent spine damage may occur if left untreated.
Why Should You See Your Chiropractor for Text Neck?
Here are some ways a session with your chiropractor can help:
1. Prevent further posture problems
Our excessive use of technology can cause posture problems, as your head, neck, and upper back are hunched forward as you spend too much screen time. It can slowly move your body out of alignment, making it more difficult to straighten your posture. To avoid unnecessary trips to the chiropractic clinic, take breaks, and practice some good old stretching.
2. Lower the risk of reduced mobility
Limited neck mobility, most commonly known as a stiff neck, has different causes and usually involves actions that need you to look down, such as using the computer or cellphones excessively. You can lower the risk of reduced mobility with some neck exercises.
3. Prevent eye strain
Sadly, your eyes share the same stress as your neck, head, and back when you have a text neck. Too much screen time often leads to dry eyes and other eye problems. UPMC suggests keeping your distance and taking some time off the screen.
Setting reminders to look away from screens, resting your eyes, and protective spectacles are just some ways you can protect your eyes.
What to Do about Text Neck
Text neck continues to be more common nowadays with the rise of technology and internet access. Fortunately, it is preventable when treated early. And one relaxing way to treat that is by booking an appointment at your local chiropractic clinic. Your chiropractor will ask about your medical history and conduct a physical exam before realigning your spine.
On the other hand, the best way to prevent text neck is by taking breaks in between working hours. It allows you to stretch out those aching neck and back muscles while lessening the tension on your neck and upper back. You can also use some chiropractor-approved exercises.
While exercising and reducing screen time can be helpful, you can also use your cell phone without placing so much pressure on your neck. Try raising your phone to eye level, so you don’t have to tilt your head forward.
Setting The Record Straight
Text necks are painful and uncomfortable, but it doesn’t have to be that way, thanks to chiropractics. If you experience any symptoms, book an appointment with your nearest chiropractic clinic immediately.
Triple Crown Chiropractic is a family chiropractic clinic based in Walton, Kentucky helping people take the first step to healing. We strive to provide the best solutions for lower back and shoulder pain in the TriState Area. Schedule an appointment today!