Text Neck Pain is Real and What You Can Do About It

I want to talk about something today that affects a lot of people – pretty much everyone who owns a cell phone, tablet, or laptop. 

And I have an assignment for you to do RIGHT NOW. 

Check your posture – Is your head tilted down while you’re watching this? Or maybe leaning forward to see better? 

That position puts you at risk for developing something that’s becoming more common all the time! 

It’s called TEXT NECK – and it can really add up to some major stress on your body over time.  

Text neck happens when you spend a lot of time every day with your head forward and shoulders rounded. 

Why does this matter? Well, here’s a pretty surprising fact – for every inch your head juts forward, it adds 10 pounds of extra pressure on your neck! 

Have you ever found yourself in that position after getting lost scrolling through your phone? Let me know below if you know what I’m talking about! 

Well just imagine the ripple effect this has on the rest of your body. 

All the muscles in the front of your neck and shoulders get tight - and that can even extend down your abs toward your hip flexors. 

PLUS, the muscles in the back of your body can get lengthened and weaker! 

Sooo … what can you do about it? 

First of all … 

Pay attention to your posture when you’re on your phone, laptop, or computer. 

Try to adjust your posture so that you’re not hunched over. If at all possible, bring your screen to eye level, instead of dropping your eye level to your screen! 

Remember, you are in charge of your device and it is not in charge of you! 

Second … 

Take breaks from your computer or phone. 

Put it down, stand up, and walk away! Roll your shoulders, stretch out your upper body, twist your torso, and just move. 

This will help not only counteract text neck, but will get your circulation going and give you a boost of energy. 

Third … 

Do exercises to make your core strong and to support your neck! 

What you want to do is focus on exercises that restore balance, flexibility, and strength to your muscles! 

These include exercises like planks and glute bridges, and stretches that target your shoulders and neck.  

Getting out of the text neck habit can take some time and practice but it definitely is worth it! 

Over the next day or two, pay attention to your posture and see how often your head slides forward. Your neck – and the rest of your body! – will thank you! 

I hope this information has been useful! As always, I’m about holistic and natural solutions to help you feel fitter and healthier. Want to learn more? Click here to schedule a free consult.