TECH NECK
Bottom Line:
Smartphones and tablets have quickly become a part of our everyday life.
Many kids spend hours per day messaging with friends and playing the latest
games. Often, it’s done with their neck bent forward, shoulders rounded, and
arms holding the phone up in front of their eyes. New research has shown this
type of awkward position can lead to a painful condition called “Tech Neck.”
Why it Matters:
Recently, Scientific Reports published a
shocking paper which found a “horn” growing off the back of the head of kids
who spent a great deal of time on their cell phones and tablets. This extreme
variation of Tech Neck is suspected to be caused by constant pressure placed on
the back of the head (the occiput) when the head is bent forward and chin is
tucked. The excessive force can result in calcification of the soft tissue,
which can start to look like a “horn” growing out of the back of the head! Did
you know…
- Kids may be spending up to 1400 hours per year in positions
that cause tech neck.
- Even 15 degrees of forward tilt can triple the weight of the
head and stress on the spine.
- Taking a break from mobile devices every 15 minutes can help
reduce the likelihood of neck pain and headaches.
Next Steps:
Spending time on your favorite devices doesn’t mean that you start
growing horns tomorrow. However, it does give an example of how and why we need
to be smart about our posture and positioning when using our mobile devices.
Encouraging your children to take a break and stretch is one of the best (and
easiest) ways to break the bad habits that can lead to Tech Neck. If you have
any questions, just ask!
Science Source:
Prominent exostosis projecting from the
occipital squama more substantial and prevalent in young adult than older age
groups. Scientific Reports 2018
Visit the AMI Clinic in Bedford to get yourself checked and corrected!
Call us: 01234 307565
Call us: 01234 307565
Website: amiclinics.co.uk
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