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Why texting can be a pain in the neck

By mike, Oct 10 in blog with 0 comments

Chiropractors are warning of a rise in a new condition called ‘text neck’, as people spend more time hunched over their mobile phones.

The affliction is caused by flexing the neck for extended periods of time and can cause permanent arthritic damage if not treated.

In some cases, patients can adapt to the flexed position and it becomes painful to straighten the neck out properly.

Cases of the condition, and other types of repetitive strain injury, have been on the rise as smartphones and tablet computers become increasingly popular.

Rachel Lancaster, of Freedom Back Clinic in Leeds, told news organisations she had treated thousands of patients for ‘text neck’.

‘Text neck is caused by the neck being flexed for a prolonged period of time,’ she said.

‘Sufferers are increasing as the use of smartphones and tablet computers become more popular.’

She added: ‘If people continue to put their necks in these positions the body will gradually adapt to the stresses.’

Tips for warding off text neck include rotating the shoulders with your arms by your sides, taking regular screen breaks and sitting up straight while texting.

Children are most at risk from the condition because their heads are larger in relation to their body size then adults.

Story source: www.bigpond.com

About the author

Mike Andrew has been working with the Internet and small business for over 12 years. Mike has been a keynote speaker at conventions and seminars and conducted social media training sessions all over the world. Mike has an extensive media background having worked in electronic media for over 30 years. Mike specialises in social media and Internet marketing strategy, SEO techniques and search engine marketing campaigns. His articles appear on numerous blogs around the web as well as national magazines.