Text Neck

Overuse of Smartphone’s can cause slipped discs

By: Dr. Stephen Kelly

With smartphone’s gaining popularity among South Koreans since 2010, an escalating number of youngsters, mostly in their twenties, are beginning to suffer the consequences.

According to the Korean National Health Insurance Corporation, the number of patients with cervical disc herniation (or slipped disc) has increased from 573,912 in 2007 to 784,121 in 2011. Out of 100,000 patients, 7.6 percent of them are in their twenties.

Most people look down when using their mobile devices. This posture adds a strain to the neck and causes cervical disc herniation. Whilst a human head weighs approximately 10 pounds (4.5kg), staring at a phone with your head tilted forward will feel more akin to a 20-30 pound (9kg to 13.6kg) load. A significant problem for the discs in your neck!

This study was done in Korea but this is a nearly worldwide problem. Chiropractic intervention can help “text neck” by realigning vertebrae and proving proper stretching/ rehabilitation exercises.

Cervical disc herniation isn't the only problem exacerbated by over use of Smartphone’s. Youngsters also spend less time exercising which has resulted in an increase in obesity and diabetes.

If you are one of those who like to spend hours chatting or gaming on your smartphone, this latest report from Korea should motivate you to take some time to rest in between and do some light neck stretches. After all, a slipped disc is no joking matter as it requires frequent medical, chiropractic and/or physical therapy. In some cases, it may even require surgical attention.

If you or a loved one frequently uses a smartphone, get checked by a chiropractor. It can help prevent/ relieve neck pain, headaches and potentially prevent a disc herniation.

Dr. Stephen Kelly.www.family1stchiropractic.ca.  Family First Chiropractic. 403-347-3261.  142 Erickson Drive. Red Deer, Alberta