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Is your Cell Phone Hurting your Neck?
(& How to Fix It!)
by Dr Molly Casey
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Do your cell phone and spine have anything to do with each other? You may be surprised at what you find!
That $500 cell phone may be responsible for that costly pain in your back or neck. Common Cell Phone Posture Common texting behavior has the neck held forward and tipped down. In addition, most folks then round the shoulders forward and slouch a bit. While this doesn’t seem too harmful, think for just a moment about how much time we adults and even kids spend on a cell phone these days. It’s a lot of time. Proper Spinal Posture There are three natural curves in the spine that, for optimal health of the spine and nervous system, must remain intact throughout one’s life. While looking at someone from the side who has proper posture, you’ll notice the ears directly in line with the shoulders that are carried down the back. The shoulders are in line with and run down the middle of the hip joint. And the hips are in line with the knees that are slightly bent. How To Hold Your Cell Phone It sounds simple but it matters. First and foremost, whenever you pick up your cell phone, focus on your overall posture. Pretend you have a string in the center of the top of your head and that string is being pulled straight up. Automatically, your shoulders round down and back, your chest opens up and your neck and head pull back. Consciously tuck your chin down and in just a bit, and bring your ears over your shoulders. Then bring your cell phone in front of you and up to eye level, which means the phone is out in front and above your shoulders. Pretend it is your computer screen and you’re looking straight at it. And yes, it will likely take two hands to text. While this new posture may feel and look awkward, it will greatly support the health of your spine and your overall life. This is an example of daily habits and choices that will either foster health or slowly degrade it. They often aren’t fun or easy changes to make, yet the impact they can have on your life is immense. If you have further questions about your cell phone posture and the health of your spine, please drop in at Papakura South Chiropractic |
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