How DOES your cellphone, laptop,and computer use hurt your neck?
These are gadgets that make our lives easier but not easier on the neck. What a pain in the neck that is! Constantly looking down at these gadgets compromises proper posture.
A few facts about the neck (cervical spine):
- Cervical spine consists of 7 bones, starting from the base of the skull connecting to thoracic spine (upper back).
- The spinal cord runs through the cervical, thoracic, and lumbar spine. Nerves branch out from the spinal cord through the foramen (small holes on side of the spine [vertebra]), which relay messages, sensations to the body. Blood vessels also runs through the foramen, for circulation to the brain and spine.
- The head rests on the top of the cervical spine. It weighs between 10-13 lbs. With good posture, this weight is what the cervical spine has to carry. Imagine a bowling ball in replacement of your head supported by 7 cervical spine bones.
Injuries to the neck from electronic gadgets:
- Looking down at the cellphone or tablet when it’s in your hands, whether you are sitting and standing, forces your neck into a forward head and flexed position.
- It decreases the natural curve of the spine, causing the muscles to be overstretched, and forced to work hard to prevent the “10-13 lb. bowling ball” from falling off (that’s your head). Gravity plays a role here, making the head heavier, thus more work for the neck muscles.
- Neck pain leads to referred or traveling pain to your shoulders, upper back and forearms.
If you’re having any of these symptoms, don’t delay any further…call us for an appointment today!
By Jennifer Angeles (Updated: 06/14/2020)
