“Tech neck” - The connection between screen time and neck pain

In today's world, mobile phones are an essential part of daily life, keeping us connected and entertained. However, as we spend more and more time looking down at our screens, we're beginning to see a rise in neck pain and other musculoskeletal problems. Recent studies have shed light on how this habit of constantly bending our necks forward (often called "text neck") can have serious consequences on our bodies.

When we use our phones for long periods, our heads and necks shift in a way that puts a lot of extra pressure on the muscles and bones in our neck. Essentially, looking down for long periods increases the strain on our neck muscles, particularly those in the upper back and shoulders. This is because we aren't just looking down with our eyes; we're also bending our necks forward, which can overwork muscles like the upper trapezius (the muscles between your neck and shoulders) and the erector spinae (muscles along your spine that keep you upright). As a result, these muscles have to work harder than usual to support your head, leading to discomfort and even pain.

In fact, studies show a clear link between how much time people spend on their mobiles (and other devices, like laptops) and the intensity of their neck pain. The more time someone spends looking down at their phone, the more likely they are to experience neck pain. It's not just about discomfort; there’s evidence suggesting that people who have neck pain also tend to have more difficulty doing everyday activities that involve movement and use of their neck like looking over shoulder when driving in car.

While some studies suggest that there may not always be noticeable differences in posture or muscle endurance between people who have neck pain and those who don't, those with neck pain do tend to score higher on disability measures. This means that neck pain can impact people's ability to carry out routine tasks, and it may become a bigger problem over time if not addressed.

These findings highlight the importance of being mindful of our posture and phone usage habits. Simply put, the way we hold our phones and how long we look at them matters. By paying attention to our posture and taking regular breaks from looking at our screens, we can help reduce the risk of neck pain and other musculoskeletal issues down the line. This research serves as a reminder to be more conscious of how we use our devices and to make small changes that can have a big impact on our long-term health.