Due to unhealthy lifestyle habits, the risk of various health problems is increasing rapidly. One such rising concern among youth is Text Neck Syndrome. Reports suggest that nearly 60% of young individuals either currently suffer from this issue or have experienced it at some point.
What is Text Neck Syndrome?
Text Neck Syndrome is a condition caused by prolonged use of smartphones, especially when used in a poor posture. Bending the neck for long hours while using mobile phones, scrolling through social media, or watching reels can lead to neck pain and stiffness. In some cases, the discomfort can be so severe that it interferes with daily tasks.
How dangerous can this condition be? What can be done to prevent it? Let’s understand in detail.
Youth Aged 15–20 at Higher Risk
According to a report published in the International Journal of Health Sciences and Research (IJHSR), individuals aged 15 to 20 years are the most vulnerable to neck pain caused by excessive mobile use.
A study conducted among 1,835 students in Benin, West Africa, revealed that 74.55% regularly sent messages using their phones. Over time, more than 1,000 of them reported neck pain. Those who used their smartphones 4–5 times an hour were found to be at higher risk.
What Causes Text Neck Syndrome?
Health experts say that Text Neck is a modern-age problem. It occurs when people spend extended periods looking down at screens, putting continuous stress on the neck and spine. This causes strain on muscles and bones.
When we tilt our heads, the load on the cervical spine increases. While the average human head weighs around 4.5 to 5.5 kg, bending it at a 60-degree angle puts up to 25 kg of pressure on the neck. Over time, this can lead to chronic pain and muscle strain.
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Are You Also a Victim?
Most of us use smartphones daily. Since this condition is becoming more common among youth, it’s important to watch out for the signs, such as:
- Neck pain and stiffness
- Tightness in the shoulders and upper back
- Frequent headaches
- Difficulty concentrating
- Tingling or numbness in the hands (occasionally)
If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to seek medical attention early.
Who is More at Risk?
- People who use mobiles and tablets excessively
- According to a 2020 study, youth aged 18–35 years who spend 3–5 hours daily on phones are more likely to show symptoms
- Office workers who spend long hours bent over laptops or computers
- The more you tilt your head, the more pressure builds up on the neck
How to Prevent Text Neck Syndrome?
- Hold your mobile or laptop screen at eye level
- If you work in an office, take a break every 20 minutes to stretch
- Do neck and shoulder exercises regularly to keep the muscles flexible
- If the issue persists, consult a doctor without delay
Conclusion: Text Neck Syndrome may seem like a minor issue at first, but if ignored, it can cause long-term damage. Adopting healthy screen habits and maintaining good posture can go a long way in preventing this growing health concern.