Whether for work or play, phones play an integral role in day-to-day life. Texting, talking, playing games, and enjoying media are just a few of the perks, and while the convenience may seem consequence-free, there can be a cost. Phones pull your spine and neck out of their natural posture, which can result in a number of health issues, such as back pain. It’s important to make changes, so keep the following in mind.

How Do Phones Affect Your Spinal Health?

When many people make phone calls, they tilt their neck down to their shoulder. Known as “tech neck,” this posture puts strain on muscles and tendons and can lead to chronic neck pain. Similar issues occur when texting and watching videos; tilting your head forward for long periods of time increases the weight of your head, causing neck pain in other areas, as well as upper back pain. Over time, you may even develop a permanently disfigured posture, known as hyperkyphosis. The worse your posture is, the more extensive the pain will be, and you could permanently injure muscles, tendons, or ligaments.

How Can You Prevent Spinal Damage?

To avoid neck and back pain, always hold your cellphone in front of your face when reading texts or emails. When making calls, bring your phone to your ear and keep your neck straight. If you’re on the phone for long periods, invest in a headset to avoid muscle strain. It’s important to stretch these areas regularly and strengthen the muscles if they are weak. A chiropractor can help you build a customized care plan to reduce the risk of spinal and neck injuries, as well as resolve any existing back pain or other issues.

If you’re living with chronic pain, turn to the team at Chiropractic Associates of Platteville. Located in Grant County, WI, their skilled team offers a number of chiropractic care solutions for conditions like back pain, sports injuries, and sciatica. They believe in a personalized approach for each patient, and you can count on comprehensive care. Call (608) 348-3156 to schedule a consultation, and visit their website to learn more about their practice.