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5 Ways to Relieve the Pain of Text Neck

Written By Summerside Chiropractic Clinic on November 20, 2017

It turns out that using your smartphone can be a pain in the neck. Literally. “Text neck” is an increasingly common condition that develops when you stay in a hunched-over position for a long period of time – the sort of position that describes any of us when we’re texting or using apps on our phone or tablet.

But it’s unnatural. When you keep your head down like that, it goes against the normal curve of your neck, putting strain on your vertebrae and neck muscles. This posture, if uncorrected, can lead to headaches, pain, herniated discs, and arthritis. It’s especially concerning in teenagers and younger children, who have grown up using these devices and whose spines are still developing. 

If you have text neck, you can find relief in chiropractic care. Let’s go over a few helpful facts and tips you can use and share.

Heads Up for Health

The average adult head weighs about 10 to 12 pounds. That means your neck is essentially keeping a bowling ball balanced on your shoulders for two-thirds of a day. When you look down at your phone, your head drops in front of your shoulders, which forces the muscles in your neck and upper back to work harder to hold your head up. 

So, unless you have the neck muscles of The Rock, you need to change your smartphone-using ways before severe neck-related injuries occur. 

5 Tips to Get Relief 

Here are five things you can do to avoid discomfort and damage:

1. Get chiropractic care for text neck. 

Your chiropractor is an expert on musculoskeletal issues. Getting regular chiropractic care can help with many health conditions, including text neck. Call us today at (780) 432-1400 to make an appointment.

2. Put down the phone.

We love our phones. Still, putting them down after a while is good for both our social skills and our health. If you do need to stay connected for a long stretch, then keep your phone at eye level, or try switching to a desktop or laptop for a while. 

3. Maintain good posture.  

Sit (or stand) up straight, with your shoulders pulled back. That will keep your body in a “neutral” position, which is ideal for proper alignment. The American Chiropractic Association has good advice on improving your posture.

4. Do some neck exercises.  

Neck stretches can relieve muscle tension and improve blood flow and relieve tension. Here are several you can do at your desk or at home.

5. There’s an app for that.

Technology got you into this mess. Technology can help you get out of it. Several apps for Apple and Android phones offer advice on safe, ergonomic use of your phone. Visit your phone’s app store and search for “text neck.”

Is There an Emoji for “Pain Free”?

By following these tips and getting regular chiropractic care for text neck, you’ll help make sure your smartphone usage is truly smart. Call us at (780) 705-0991 if you have any questions.


Posted In: Chiropractic Neck Pain