A new research has been released revealing that the current generation may be suffering from 'text neck' syndrome.
Dr. Kenneth Hansraj, the lead researcher for the aforementioned study, discovered that the neck endures excessive pressure brought about by hunching or slumping when one reads a text message.
In addition, Dr. Hansraj shared that the neck withstands growing amount of pressure according to the angle it is bent. Whenever a user slouches or slumps while using his or her phone, additional pressure is exerted on the cervical spine, which is the portion of the spine found on top of the shoulders. For instance, a 60-degree bent angle of the head would result to an extra 60 lbs. of pressure to the spine.
"The weight seen by the spine dramatically increases when flexing the head forward at varying degrees," stated the researchers in the study.
The pressure endured by the cervical spine then causes back and neck pains, which may eventually necessitate surgical treatment.
"These stresses may lead to early wear, tear, degeneration and possibly surgeries," explained the researchers.
Hansraj, who is also the lead spine surgeon at New York Spine Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, shared that this 'text neck' syndrome is alarmingly affecting almost everyone at this day and age.
"It is an epidemic or, at least, it's very common," he said. "Just look around you, everyone has their heads down," the spine surgeon added.
However, Hansraj pointed out that majority of those inflicted with this condition are the young. "The problem is really profound in young people," stated the doctor. "With this excessive stress in the neck, we might start seeing young people needing spine care. I would really like to see parents showing more guidance," Hansraj added.
In fact, it was a young patient who ignited Hansraj's interest in leading the study. According to the doctor, he once treated a young man complaining about a pain in his back, leg, and neck. Despite performing surgery, the pain in his patient's neck and back remained. Upon further examination, Hansraj found out that the young man had been spending roughly four hours everyday just playing iPad games.
Hansraj is quick to clarify, however, that his study does not aim to discourage people from using these gadgets.
"I love technology. I'm not bashing technology in any way," the lead researcher clarified. "My message is: Just be cognizant of where your head is in space. Continue to enjoy your smartphones and continue to enjoy this technology - just make sure your head is up," Hansraj advised.
