Introduction
Mobile phones have become an essential part of our daily lives. We use them for communication, entertainment, and even for work. However, prolonged use of mobile phones can result in various health issues, one of which is pain. In this article, we will discuss the pain associated with mobile phone use, its causes, and what you can do to prevent it.
Pain Associated with Mobile Phone Use
The pain associated with mobile phone use is commonly referred to as ‘text neck.’ It is caused by the forward head posture that people adopt while using their mobile phones. This posture can lead to strain on the neck and upper back muscles, resulting in pain and discomfort.
Research shows that the prevalence of neck pain associated with mobile phone use is increasing. In the UK, over 79% of adults own a smartphone, and over half of them use it for more than 2 hours a day. This prolonged use can lead to several health issues, including pain in the neck, shoulders, and upper back.
Causes of Pain Associated with Mobile Phone Use
There are several causes of pain associated with mobile phone use, including:
- Poor posture: The most common cause of pain associated with mobile phone use is poor posture. When we use our mobile phones, we tend to lean forward, hunch our shoulders, and look down, which can put stress on our neck and upper back muscles.
- Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI): Repetitive movements can lead to RSI, which can cause pain and discomfort in the neck, shoulders, and upper back.
- Eye strain: Looking at a small screen for a prolonged period can cause eye strain, which can also lead to headaches and neck pain.
- Muscle strain: Holding your mobile phone for an extended period can cause muscle strain in your arms check out this blog for help with tennis elbow, which can also contribute to pain in the neck, shoulders, and upper back.
Text Neck Prevention & Treatment
Here are some tips that can help you prevent and treat pain associated with mobile phone use:
- Maintain good posture: Try to hold your mobile phone at eye level to avoid straining your neck and upper back muscles. Try my FREE posture program – upgrade your posture in just 35 minutes.
- Take breaks: Take regular breaks from using your mobile phone to give your muscles a rest.
- Stretching: Stretching can help relieve tension in your neck and upper back muscles. Try to stretch your neck, shoulders, and upper back muscles regularly. My Pain Free BODY Program looks at stretches as well as strength, posture and balance.
- Massage: A massage can help relieve muscle tension and promote relaxation.
- Seek professional help: If the pain persists, seek professional help from a doctor or physiotherapist.
Conclusion
Mobile phones have become an essential part of our daily lives, but prolonged use can lead to several health issues, including pain in the neck, shoulders, and upper back. To prevent and treat pain associated with mobile phone use, it is essential to maintain good posture, take breaks, and stretch regularly, My Pain Free BODY exercise program addresses all of this and more for only £99.
Follow these simple tips, you can enjoy the benefits of your mobile phone without compromising your health.
Take care, Helen
Helen Manders BSc (Hons) MCSP HCPC
