Neck pain, along with back discomfort, is one of the most common conditions that is reported to physicians and other health care professionals. If you are living with neck pain, The Spine Institute in Santa Monica, CA shares a few lifestyle factors that may be attributing to the level of pain, discomfort, or stiffness that is experienced.
Poor Posture
The head is heavy. The average adult cranium weighs about 10 pounds and comprises approximately 5% of an individual’s body weight. Consistently holding the head in a less than optimal position puts a lot of strain on the neck and the shoulders and is a major contributor to neck discomfort. People who walk with their heads and shoulders drooped forward are at risk for developing muscle strain.
Excessive Phone Use
“Text Neck” is a new term that is being used to describe the soreness and decreased flexibility that occurs after an individual spends excessive time hunched over a phone or other handheld device texting, playing games, or browsing the internet. When the angle of the neck is sharpened and the position is held for an extended time, the pressure on the neck and shoulders increases. For example, at a 15 degree angle, the weight of the head is equivalent to about 25 pounds, and at 60 degrees, the weight increases to 60 pounds.
Sedentary Work
Many people spend close to 10 working hours each day bent over in front of a computer screen. If a person is consistently maintaining a posture that puts a heavy load on the cervical spine and the muscles that support the neck, a chronically sore neck may develop. In addition, slumping over a laptop for an extended period of time performing school work or other tasks may also result in chronic pain and stiffness.
If chronic neck pain persists, it may be time to schedule an appointment with a spinal specialist who can recommend conservative or minimally invasive spine neck treatments to help provide short and long-term relief. For more information about neck treatment options, call (310) 828-7757 and request an in-person consultation with The Spine Institute Center for Spinal Restoration.