Increasing use of mobiles, music players causing ‘text neck’ epidemic

WELLINGTON - Technology is a pain in the neck - literally.

As use of mobiles and handheld music players is on the rise, so are the cases of ‘text neck’ - repetitive stress injury seen especially in young people who look down at mobile devices for long periods of time.

“The bones and muscles of the spine adapt to that posture and functional changes ensue,” the New Zealand Herald quoted Chiropractors’ Association spokesman Hayden Thomas, as saying.

“These changes in the curve, supporting ligaments, tendons, musculature, as well as the bony segments, can eventually lead to nerve involvement, muscle spasms and pain,” he added.

Although it’s impossible to avoid the use of technology these days, it is possible to prevent damage to health.

Those changes included paying attention to posture when texting or looking at a hand-held device, holding the phone directly in front of the face while texting or reading emails to avoid bending the neck downward, and taking regular breaks.

“A few small tweaks to how you use your mobile, MP3 player or e-reader could mean a world of difference when it comes to the health and longevity of your spine, neck and muscles,” Thomas said. (ANI)