Introduction: Is Your Child at Risk of Text Neck Syndrome?
Increased screen time among children and adolescents is raising concerns among parents and caregivers. There are obvious risks such as physical inactivity and negatively impacting proper social development but new health concerns such as ‘Text Neck Syndrome’ are also emerging. At Alliance Chiropractic, we are seeing a rise in patients experiencing symptoms related to prolonged use of technology. Let’s explore what Text Neck Syndrome is and how you can protect your child from the risks associated with it.
Understanding Text Neck Syndrome
Text Neck Syndrome occurs from the repetitive stress of looking down at mobile devices, and includes a range of symptoms such as:
- Neck, upper back, and shoulder pain
- Forward head posture
- Rounded shoulders
- Headaches
- Reduced mobility in the neck, upper back, or shoulders
Left unchecked, Text Neck Syndrome can promote physical changes such as cervical spinal degeneration. Whether it’s for entertainment, socialization, or education, when children spend hours on their devices with their heads dropped forward, there is significant strain placed on the neck area. Over time, this can lead to serious pain and discomfort, and if left unchecked, may impact their development and quality of life.
Epidemiology and Impact
Statistics show a worrying trend: adults and children are suffering from chronic neck pain due to mobile device usage. While the recent pandemic may have contributed to significant increases in technology use, health care providers and researchers continue to raise flags on the risks of prolonged and excessive technology use. Global estimates reveal that up to 75% of people engage in daily activities that could lead to Text Neck Syndrome.
The challenge with children is that often their symptoms go unnoticed or unreported until the problem is serious. Some youth may experience dizziness and muscle strain affecting their daily function, but more often than not, symptoms are ignored until they have progressed enough to interfere with regular activity.
Psychological and Social Considerations
The psychological impact of excessive screen time cannot be overlooked. It contributes to social isolation and anxiety, which can also worsen symptoms. Promoting less screen time and more physical activity is essential in helping children lead balanced lives.
Preventative Measures and Treatments
The key takeaway is to monitor screen time and device use to prevent symptoms of Text Neck Syndrome. Here are some steps you can take to help your child:
- Encourage regular breaks from mobile devices.
- Teach proper posture: shoulders back, device at eye level.
- Set up a comfortable, ergonomic study space.
If you need help with any of the above, talk to us. We can assess your child’s neuromusculoskeletal health (posture, mobility, and alignment), technology habits, and workspace to provide personalized advice.
The So-What: Technology Use can be Managed
Technology is here to stay – parents and healthcare providers can work together to protect our children from issues associated with prolonged device use.
As your partner in health, Alliance Chiropractic can help prevent, manage, and treat Text Neck Syndrome symptoms effectively with recommendations and treatment plans tailored to your child’s specific needs. Our team is available to support Ancaster and Greater Hamilton area families. If you have questions about this article or other concerns related to your child’s health, contact us.
For the source of the information, visit National Library of Medicine