Digital devices have become an integral part of nearly everyone’s life, and they’re definitely a significant benefit. But the way most of use them could be at odds with their ability to keep us connected and informed at the push of a button or tap of a screen. Most people who use these devices, such as tablets or phones, will hold them in ways that requires them to also bend their head and neck to see the screens and make use of the device. This might seem like a minor, almost irrelevant, concern; but it turns out that over a long period of time, as it becomes a habit, it creates conditions that can lead to pain or even damage.
One study showed that more than half of participants had at least medium levels of physical discomfort in their necks, arms, or back and shoulders. One in ten reported the pain as being severe. And fifteen percent of all respondents said the discomfort was interrupting their ability to sleep through the night. What is particularly troubling is the symptoms were present even in young people, who traditionally have more able bodies and are better positioned to resist or heal injury.
The study’s authors don’t advocate ceasing use of digital devices; but they do recommend users should not crick their necks up in strange positions during usage. Hold the devices up and out, so you can view and use them without having to look down.
Hunching over your tablet or phone could be doing long term damage to your neck. Sit straight! #HealthStatus
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Key Points:
- 1Women are twice as likely as men to have shoulder and neck pain.
- 2Poor posture while using a tablet can lead to a condition called “tablet neck”.
- 3Stiffness, soreness, and pain in the shoulder and neck are the most common warning signs of “tablet neck”.
See the original at: https://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=213193
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