Home / Health / Your Phone is Hurting Your Spine!
Your Phone is Hurting Your Spine!
22 Dec
Summary
- Young adults face rising neck and back pain from smartphone use.
- Forward head posture from phones drastically increases spinal load.
- This pain is often reversible with simple posture corrections.
Orthopaedic clinics in India are reporting a concerning rise in neck and back pain among young adults in their twenties. These ailments, once common in middle age, are now linked to excessive smartphone use, according to Dr. Harish Ghoota of Fortis Hospital. The issue stems from the unnatural posture adopted while using devices, leading to increased strain on the cervical spine and overall spinal alignment.
Studies reveal that tilting the head forward even 15 degrees significantly elevates the pressure on the neck, a phenomenon termed 'text neck.' This sustained forward posture not only causes pain but can lead to early degenerative changes in the spine. The impact extends beyond the neck, affecting thoracic and lower back mobility and potentially causing chronic pain over time.
The good news is that this damage is largely reversible for young individuals. Simple adjustments like raising the phone to eye level, taking frequent movement breaks, and strengthening postural muscles can alleviate symptoms. Limiting screen time and using both hands while holding a phone also contribute to better spinal health, preventing these aches from becoming a long-term problem.
