The Text Generation

Loss of lung capacity, disc compression, spinal degeneration, arthritis, muscle weakness. Imagine having all of these symptoms? Imagine the discomfort and pain, the lifestyle changes and long term repercussions of these physiological conditions and abnormalities. What if we then added migraines to the list, which leads to loss of focus, depression, pain related anger issues and anxiety. What if we said these are all long term results of using a smartphone or tablet, and we haven’t even mentioned the effects of blue light exposure! But that’s for another time. The above symptoms combined with a forward head tilt and rounded upper back posture, known as kyphosis, paired with regular sitting and computer, tablet or smartphone use, are the tell-tale signs you may be exposing yourself to potential chronic pain. According to one source, 79% of teenagers and 95% of adults in the UK report to owning a smartphone. Some primary schools are now using tablets to educate children as the number of users under ten years old rises. We are seeing not only an increase in adolescents with neck and back problems but a reduction in the amount of sport and exercise our next generation partake in.  And while at the time of writing, there is no known recommended period of use for smartphones, we do have some tips for you if you are a regular user or are worried that you might be experiencing some of the symptoms above. Firstly, put the phone down and look up. Especially when you are crossing roads. Managing your screen time is the first step, ask yourself “What do you need to use your device for and do you really need to use it for that task?” when its work its tough, but would you be better off writing your to do list down somewhere else? Or perhaps make a plan to only check your social media platforms twice a day, simple changes can go a long way. Take regular breaks from your device, in the same way you should be taking regular breaks from computer usage at work, therefore reducing prolonged static periods. The latest devices are lightweight and quite durable, however over a period of time holding the device will put a strain on the upper back and neck; try resting the device at eye-level and give your arms a break by reducing the amount of swiping that you do. Finally, correct assessment and soft tissue therapy aimed at improving the range of motion at your upper back and neck can help to relive the pressure that is potentially causing pain and discomfort in the long term. Ice and heat will also help, but will only take you so far, along with a well programmed exercise program delivered by a qualified exercise rehabilitation specialist will also ensure that you are in good hands.