What is 'text neck' and how does it affect young adults?

'Text neck' is a condition caused by prolonged phone use leading to headaches and neck pain, with the cervical spine load increasing significantly when the neck is tilted forward.

How much weight does the cervical spine carry when using a phone?

The cervical spine's load can increase to nearly 25 to 27 kg when the neck is bent forward at a 60-degree angle, compared to about 4 to 5 kg in a neutral position.

What are the recommendations to prevent 'text neck' from excessive screen time?

Recommendations include limiting recreational screen time, keeping devices at eye level, and performing regular neck exercises.

Home / Health / 25kg Neck Strain: The Hidden Danger of Using Phones

25kg Neck Strain: The Hidden Danger of Using Phones

7 Mar

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Summary

Young adults and children are increasingly suffering from 'text neck'.
Head position changes cervical spine load to 27 kg.
Medical facilities see hundreds of cases monthly, a significant rise.

25kg Neck Strain: The Hidden Danger of Using Phones

Young adults and children are increasingly diagnosed with 'text neck,' a condition stemming from excessive screen time and poor posture.

This posture-related ailment, characterized by persistent headaches and neck pain, significantly strains the cervical spine. Doctors explain that the head's weight, normally 4-5 kg, can exert up to 27 kg of pressure when the neck is bent forward by 60 degrees.

Medical facilities, including KGMU and RMLIMS, report a sharp increase in such cases, with KGMU seeing 150-200 patients monthly, a substantial rise from previous years. Private hospitals also observe a significant number of similar cases.

Experts warn that ignoring this strain can lead to disc damage, nerve compression, and altered neck curvature. They advise limiting recreational screen time and maintaining devices at eye level, alongside regular neck exercises.

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