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In the age of technology, people are constantly on their phones. According to research, we check our phones about 50 times per day! Although these electronics have become a part of our overall culture, excessive texting, web surfing and social media scrolling can take a toll on our bodies.
While many would be unable to completely detach from cell phones, laptops and tablets, we can make changes to prevent modern conditions like “Text Neck”.
What Is Text Neck?
This real medical condition can result from the use of any electronic device that causes neck strain but is most commonly seen from cell phone use. Texting can lead to prolonged periods of forward neck flexing, which can cause soreness. According to research by a New York spine surgeon, tilting the head 60 degrees forward puts an additional 60 pounds of pressure on the neck!
For anyone who has awoken with a stiff neck or experienced serious neck pain after an accident, you know injury to the neck can also cause:
- Frequent headaches
- Low back pain
- Decreased lung capacity
Believe it or not, seeing a physical therapist can help you avoid the development of a chronic condition from cell phone overuse. Our proven manual techniques reduce the tension on soft tissues and muscles that cause headaches and low back pain. What lifestyle changes might we recommend to complement our PT program?
- Hold your phone up rather than looking down at the screen.
- Use a hands-free device for phone calls.
- Practice good posture to avoid putting further strain on hurt muscles.
- Use your phone less! Implement a “power down” time at home.
We also work with patients to develop individualized rehab programs that stabilize the painful area and safely improve mobility over time.
PT for Modern Conditions
The vast majority of American workers have a desk job that requires computer use. Although this has been a reality for years, recent studies have uncovered the health dangers of sitting for too long. Reportedly, sitting for 8 hours a day – as many of us do – can be worse than smoking! But the way we sit can also have a negative impact on the body.
Did you know that employees with back pain are absent four more days per year than workers without? As mentioned, physical therapy can be a very successful method to treat low back pain – and less expensive than surgery. Work with a PT at Integrated Rehab to develop better postural habits and decrease chronic pain. We will also give you self-management education to continue exercises at home and reduce risk of injury recurrence.
Wrist Pain from Typing
Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when a pinched nerve in the wrist causes hand or forearm tingling and/or numbness. You can develop it after long periods of writing, as well as typing. Many jobs require some amount of “clerical” work and this will only increase as the world continues to digitize. The most important change you can make? Take more frequent breaks.
We understand our patients need their jobs, so the road to recovery is about making small lifestyle adjustments. Supplemented with physical therapy treatment, you’ll find your hands have more strength, improved function and little to no pain from typing.
To learn more about the hidden habits that may affect your body, contact us today!