The Best Nutrients for Healthy and Flexible Joints
Checking a smartphone has become a daily habit: Quickly responding to a message, checking social media, or reading emails. Yet, hardly anyone considers the immense strain that this seemingly harmless movement puts on our spine. The so-called "text neck" has long since become a widespread issue, with potentially severe consequences for our health.
Forces Acting on Our Spine
The human spine is not designed to remain bent forward for extended periods. In a neutral position, the head weighs about 5 kg. However, with each degree of forward tilt, the strain increases dramatically:
- At 15° tilt: about 12 kg strain
- At 30° tilt: about 18 kg strain
- At 45° tilt: about 22 kg strain
- At 60° tilt: up to 27 kg strain!
This constant overload can lead to tension, headaches, herniated discs, and even long-term posture damage.
Scientific Studies Confirm the Risk
Renowned surgeon Kenneth Hansraj from the New York Spine Surgery Clinic has studied the effects of smartphone use on the spine. His study shows that the constant strain caused by holding the head forward can cause significant damage to the cervical spine. Particularly alarming is the fact that these damages often develop gradually and only become noticeable when they have already led to chronic discomfort. Hansraj emphasizes that preventive measures are crucial to avoid long-term posture damage.
Who Is Particularly at Risk?
Office workers and those with sedentary jobs: People who spend long hours at a desk often develop poor posture. The additional use of smartphones exacerbates the issue significantly.
Parents and children: While adults often neglect their posture, children develop harmful posture habits early through hours of texting and scrolling.
How Can You Prevent "Text Neck"?
- Hold your smartphone at eye level
- Perform regular stretching exercises
- Use an ergonomic workstation
- Consciously reduce smartphone time
Don't wait until it’s too late! Take proactive steps against text neck now.