We are always looking forward to purchase the latest gadgets and mobile phones for ourselves and for our kids. But with more technology, may equal more pain for avid users.
“Text neck” is a term that has been created to describe a posture formed by leaning forward for a prolonged duration. The best example would be when you are looking at your mobile phone; texting or watching a video or even reading. The constant downward looking gaze at your devices causes stress to your neck which is referred to as ‘text neck’.
More worryingly are for our kids, which in this 21st century, are more exposed to all variable gadgets out there in comparison to those 80’s or 90’s kid. Watch your kids as they utilize their mobile phones or smart gadgets for either education or play. They would naturally gaze downwards to look at their screens for a prolonged period of time. Post Covid19, more schools are adopting and leaning more towards e-learning which can be accessed via mobile phones or laptops. This means more hours on these gadgets and more strain on their necks.
Physically our neck is designed the carry the weight of our head and tilting the head forward itself places about 12 kg of weight stress on our neck. As the head tilts downwards, the stress increases. Just as our muscles sore when we hold on to a weight for a prolonged period, similarly the neck will be affected which leads to health issues.
Common issues are soreness on the neck, pain usually on the lower part of the neck which radiates towards shoulder and arms, stiff neck, headaches and even muscular weakness. We will elaborate further on these in our upcoming posts.
What should we do then?
Prevention is the key. We must bear in mind these steps for ourselves and our kids:
- Avoid excessive usage for a prolonged period of time.
- Take breaks in between
- Don’t be too static at one place. Be mobile.
- Avoid holding on to the devices for long durations or even prolonged typing or swiping
And in our best opinion,
- Position the devices at eye level so it could reduce the stress on the neck.
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the authors and assumes no responsibility or liability for any errors or omissions in the content of this site. The information contained in this article is provided on a general view and not a professional medical advice to any parties.