While it may be habitual to look down at your phone to text, this action can put a strain on your neck and back due to the awkward position. Since you likely text throughout the day, achieving neck pain relief can be difficult—but it’s not unattainable. Below are three easy, chiropractor-approved ways to reduce or eliminate neck pain caused by texting.

How to Obtain Neck Pain Relief From Texting

1. Adjust Your Usage

While eliminating texting may be out of the question, you can still adjust your usage to make it easier on your body. For neck pain relief, opt for computer-based emails or phone calls instead to avoid bending your neck downward. If you know you’ll be heavily texting one day, plan on taking frequent, extended breaks. Before using your phone again, make sure to do neck stretches to loosen the tension in your muscles.

2. Strengthen Your Muscles

The stronger muscles are, the better they’ll be able to support your spine to provide stability. It also makes them less susceptible to injury. Exercise more often, targeting your shoulders, neck, all areas of your back, and your legs. Back exercises will also help release any tension in your muscles.

3. Change the Position

The primary reason texting gives you neck pain is due to your posture. If you look down at your phone when you’re using it, you’re holding your spine and muscles in an unnatural, stressed position for an extended amount of time. Instead, bring your phone up to eye level so you can look straight ahead, not down. This reduces the strain on your neck and back muscles, preventing them from becoming sore and inflamed.

When you can’t find neck pain relief on your own, visit chiropractor Randy R. Collins, D.C., Inc. in Honolulu, HI. From back exercises to chiropractic adjustments, he provides effective, safe treatments to relieve you of your pain. He has worked on the PGA and Champions Tour, and is able to deliver effective care for car accident injuries, workers’ compensation, and sports injuries. To schedule an appointment, call (808) 839-7474 or visit his website to see a list of his services and certifications.