Are you Suffering with Text Neck?

Treating Text Neck with Chiropractic Care

How many of you right now are reading this article on a tablet or cell phone? If you answered yes, how many of you are also slouched over, head bent forward reading this article? If you answered yes again, chances are you may or may in the future suffer from Text Neck.

Many of you have heard of "Text Neck" but others may haven't,  although this has become a new buzzword in the health industry to describe a very common issue that impacts a number of people today. Text neck is a condition that can be formed when you overuse your neck, back and shoulder muscles. When your body over uses these areas - you start to feel the strain on your spine and feel immediate neck or back pain.  

This term came about with the abundance of use of mobile cell phones and tablets were comprising adults and children. Text Neck can be a serious issue that could lead to life-long damage to your spine. The silver lining is Text Neck can be treated with chiropractic treatment and be sure to follow the below tips for preventive care rather then retroactive care!

Important Facts on Text Neck

Leaving Text Neck untreated, it can cause a long-term forward neck posture which in turn can lead to disc herniation and pinched nerves.  It can also impact the natural curve you are supposed to have in your neck. Dr. Gallentine has reviewed many x-rays of a healthy individuals without Text Neck as well as many individuals that suffer from Text Neck and the difference in the curvature is astonishing. The curvature is essential in the spine in the cervical area. 

An average adult head weighs roughly 10-12 pounds, when your head moves forward and back you are adding the pressure on your neck and delicate spine. Leaving your head in this position for a various amount of time, (surfing the internet, texting, playing games, social media, etc), you could severely damage your spine especially if you are doing these items daily over weeks or months. 

Visiting Your Chiropractor For Help

As we have covered already, Text Neck is a serious issue and one of the first things that you can do to start combating the signs of Text Neck is to start improving your posture. Try working on keeping your back straight, your shoulders back and try to maintain a neutral spine when using cell phones, mobile devices, computers, reading, etc. Suffering through the pain will only worsen the condition and add to your recovery time. Be sure to call our office to schedule an appointment when you experience early onset of the pain. Be sure to also follow the below tips for preventive care!

Preventive Care

So, now that we have discussed Text Neck - once treated you should keep in mind the below tips and tricks to prevent Text Neck!

• Be sure to use all mobile devices, e-reader devices, books, mobile tablets, etc at eye level. We know this doesn't sound ideal but your body will thank you!
• Practice stretching your neck - stretch your neck back and forth to relieve tension building in these areas.
• Limit yourself with how much time you are using these devices. We know we live in a crazy busy world and we call need time to unwind and relax just be cautious with the time spent. We all have fallen victim to the vicious hours on Pinterest or not wanting to stop at a certain chapter of your new book. 

As always, if you have any questions for Dr. Gallentine - please be sure to leave them below or contact our office!