Frequently Asked Questions About Text Neck | Neck Pain Doctor New Albany, IN

Common Questions About Text Neck | Neck Doctor New Albany, IN

At 1st Choice Health & Wellness, our New Albany neck pain doctor and staff take on a lot of people who complain about neck pain and can't imagine what's causing it...then they take out their phone and begin texting. 

We usually see a major factor right there! We're happy to answer your questions about text neck and how it may be impacting your spinal health.

What is Text Neck?

Text neck (also called tech neck) is a syndrome caused by prolonged time spent slouched over cell phones, laptops, and other digital devices.

Think about it: when you use your phone, chances are your head is forward and down, your upper back is rounded, and your shoulders are rotated in. Repetitive and excessive amount of time spent in this position can cause mis-align and increase tension in the structures in and around our cervical spine.

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Text Neck?

Text neck symptoms, while generally temporary, often show up after long bouts of cell phone use or at end of a long workday. They include:

• Neck pain and tenderness
• Neck stiffness
• Headaches
• Blurry and fatigued eyes
• Shoulder pain
• Arm and hand fatigue, weakness, numbness, and tingling

Are there any long-term risks associated with text neck?

As mentioned, the primary symptoms of text neck are temporary, but the cumulative stress imposed on the spine due to repetitive "text neck" posture may increase a person's risk for longer-term issues like osteoarthritis and degenerative disc disease.

How can a chiropractor treat and prevent text neck?

A medical professional such as a chiropractor and physical therapist can help you manage (let alone become aware of) text neck using several drug-free services:

• Chiropractic adjustments, to realign spinal joints
• Acupuncture, to decrease connective tissue tension and relieve neck pain
• Corrective stretches to alleviate tension and muscle shortening

Need some suggestions? Try these (our chiropractor and physical therapist can show you how to do them):

• Chin Tuck
• Scapular retractions

How can I prevent text neck in myself and my loved ones?

In addition to seeing a chiropractor and doing the recommended stretches, you can reduce your risk of text neck by modifying the way you use your cell phone:

• Stand up straight and hold your phone at eye level while texting
• Increase text size and adjust screen brightness so you don't have to strain your eyes
• Take more breaks while using technology

Contact 1st Choice Health & Wellness for Neck Pain Treatment Today

For drug-free relief from your neck pain or other condition, contact our chiropractors in New Albany IN today by calling (812) 945-4500.