Relieve Your Text Neck!

How many hours do you spend looking at your phone? Since you are there, take a peek at your digital wellness app to find out! It may be shocking! Did you know the average American spends 5 hours a day looking at their phones?!! Research validates there is a significant association between neck pain and smartphone use. We can develop conditions like cervical spondylosis, cervical radiculopathy, cervical kyphosis, hypertonicity of paraspinal muscles and paresthesia just to name a few! Those are big words, which just translate to text neck! It’s painful!

This condition is getting more common. You can treat it by pain medication, muscle relaxants, physical therapy, traction, acupuncture or chiropractic. However, the relief will be temporary if you keep doing the same behaviors.

Instead, deal with the cause of the issue. First, consider - Do you really need to watch that cute kitten or funny video? What if you called your friend instead of texting (How novel!)? Are you scrolling for hours? Are you bored? Missing real life connections and activities? What IS it that keeps you on your phone?!

And if you already have some symptoms, give yourself breaks throughout the day. Look up and stretch! You do not need to suffer! Watch this video to learn some very simple stretches that can bring you relief. And for goodness sake, put that device down once in a while!

Tip: Notice the urges you have to look at your phone. Leave it in another room if you are eating or doing something else where you don’t actually need it. When you are using it, hold it upright at eye level. To relieve pain, clasp hands behind your head and press your head into your hands and open your elbows wide. Then tilt your chin toward your chest and bring your elbows together. Repeat. Next, tilt your right ear toward your right shoulder, using your right hand to assist. Stretch your opposite arm out straight. Repeat with the left side. Breathe while you are doing these. Remember, you can help yourself feel better!

Hope this is helpful! Want more? We provide in-person and virtual yoga sessions to relieve these types of symptoms. Contact us to schedule!

(Photo by Dr. Kenneth K. Hansraj)