What is it?

Text Neck is a recent term used to describe a repeated head forwards posture, such as when texting/ using a mobile phone.

Postures that contribute to a head forwards posture are:

· hunching your back and poking out your chin, such as when using a smart phone or a computer/laptop that is not positioned correctly for you.

· cradling your phone with your head and shoulder

· sitting slouched in a chair

· rounding your shoulders

See PICTURES by clicking HERE

(photo: handsonseminars.com/bad-posture-big-problems)

What are the symptoms?

If the forwards head posture is repeated, eventually there will be:

· Neck pain, shoulder pain, and possibly headaches.

· Neck stiffness

· Muscle weakness around the neck and shoulders.

· Tight chest muscles

Other issues can also occur, such as

· Numbness/tingling in arms and/or legs

· Stiff upper back

What can I do?

Try and improve your head posture whether you are sitting, standing or walking.

· Gradually lengthen your neck upwards as you tuck your chin in

· Bring your shoulder blades down and back towards your spine

Be sure to talk to your doctor/physiotherapist if you have had an accident and/or you have a neck condition such as arthritis as you will need a modified program

You can also

· Adjust your seating to help you maintain this posture

· Strengthen your neck and upper back.

· Reduce your use of smart phones and take frequent breaks.

A physiotherapist can provide you with postural re-education and an appropriate exercise program tailored specifically for you.

For more information visit: https://www.physio-pedia.com/Text_Neck

R. Sian Owen PT

Registered Physiotherapist