It's not news that we live in a world of technology, texting, and smart phones. So it shouldn't come as any surprise that our bodies are — quite literally — physically changing because of this new technology-focused world around us.
Just take a look around. Everyone is on their phones. No matter if they're walking, sitting, standing, waiting, and even driving — the majority of people are looking down at a phone in their hand. And that addiction is leading us into an "evolutionary" change in the way our upper body looks (and feels!!) by introducing us to text neck.
What is text neck?
Text neck is a relatively new term that refers to the modern-day occurrence of neck pain and strain due to excessive use of mobile devices.
The position that people take when holding their phones and tablets, with their heads down and necks craning forward, puts huge amounts of pressure on the spine and neck muscles. This constant strain can lead to chronic pain, headaches, and even long-term damage such as disc degeneration.
With the increasing use of mobile devices for work, school, and leisure, text neck is becoming an epidemic among all age groups.
What are the symptoms of text neck?
- Sharp pain in neck, upper back, and shoulders
- Decreased range in motion
- Stiffness in neck and shoulders
- Nerve pain in upper limbs
- Eye pain
- Rounded shoulders
- A more forward head posture
- Reduced mobility
- Headaches
- Muscle spasms
- Increased pain when neck is flexed forward
Can you fix text neck?
Fortunately, there are ways to treat and prevent text neck.
First, to prevent text neck, it's really important to actually address the root of the problem — so adjusting the position of your device so that your neck remains aligned with your spine is the only way to prevent text neck from getting worse.
It's also important to take frequent breaks from looking at your cell phone and stretch your neck and shoulders throughout the day to reduce tension. Making small changes to your daily routine can go a long way in preventing or reversing text neck
To treat text neck, exercising your neck and shoulders can re-build strength and improve your posture over time.
How to use somatic exercises to treat text neck?
Somatic exercises is an effective way to treat text neck.
Here's an easy-to-follow somatic stretch to begin with!
By incorporating more somatic exercises and mindful movements into your daily routine, you can help alleviate the symptoms of text neck and prevent further discomfort in the future. Check out our Free Your Shoulders & Neck In 30 Days program to treat your text neck, chronic pain, and poor posture!