You have heard of “texting thumb syndrome”, where excessive texting on mobile phones caused finger pain. Now, there’s a growing concern over spinal health, “text neck syndrome”.
“Poor posture has become a cause for neck and back complaints. Around 70 percent of these patients show symptoms, and screen habits play a significant role,” Dr Tarun Suri notes.
“It refers to the neck pain and damage stemming from looking down at your phone, tablet, or other wireless devices frequently,” Dr SR Patil shares about the ‘text neck syndrome’.
Dr Suri highlighted that individuals, mainly those between 25 and 45 years, are most vulnerable to the syndrome. Surprisingly, children (10-20) are also showing symptoms.
Chronic forward head posture can potentially lead to loss of the natural curve of the cervical spine. It can also lead to early wear, tear, and degeneration.
Early symptoms of text neck syndrome include neck pain, altered spinal alignment, and morning stiffness. Fortunately, with timely interventions symptoms can be mitigated.
“Frequent breaks and stretching, along with exercises such as yoga and ‘surya namaskars’, play a vital role in maintaining spinal health,” said Dr Suri at the webinar.