Preventing "Text Neck"
Dr. Peter Lazarnick (Dr. Pete) and his staff see plenty of patients straining their back and neck by looking down at the screen on their devices. You may have even heard this being called “text neck”. The average adult head weighs between 10 and 12 pounds, and neck muscles are meant to support the weight of the head in a neutral position. Looking down at a screen increases the strain on your neck, as if your neck is carrying a lot more weight. Tilting your head forward just 15 degrees adds enough force to double the weight your neck is supporting, and the greater the angle, the greater strain. Many people who text with their chin near the neck are tilting the head forward 60 degrees, which increases the load to about 60 pounds! The good news is that you can make smarter choices about using your devices every day to reduce strain on the body. Starting with good posture will always reduce strain on your neck. Sit up straight with your shoulders lined up above your hips and your head...