The digital age has dramatically changed the way teenagers Learn, interact and entertain yourself. However, this change has brought with it a silence Health Threat- text neck. Considering several published reports, it is clear that extended device use and bending have led to a significant increase in neck pain In teenagers, especially those aged 14-24. Doctors have seen a 10-15 percent increase in neck pain cases in the last year. To know more about it we contact an expert.

If you are addicted to looking at any digital screen (laptop, phone, tablet etc.) for a long time and feel tension and discomfort in the neck, then it is called text neck according to Dr. Suman Tadagonda. , sports medicine physician, spine and athlete health specialist. “It is developed through forward bending Posturewhich increases its burden over time cervical spine,” He says.

For example, when your head is aligned at 0 degrees in ideal posture, the tension weighs 5 kilograms, which is tolerable most of the time. However, Dr. Tadagonda says that every degree of head tilting forward increases the stress load and this affects the cervical spine with additional pressure. “In children, at 60 degrees, the strain may weigh 27 kg (ideal weight for an 8-year-old child). A teenager with the same weight is likely to develop cervical problems,” he explains.

According to Dr. Tadagonda, this can lead to:

• constant pain in the neck
• stiff shoulder
• Long-term spinal alignment problems

• increased screen time:Teens spend most of their leisure time on smartphones, gaming consoles and tablets. He says, “It is common that they spend their free time texting, gaming or constantly looking at gadgets with their head bent forward. This posture is taking a toll on the health of their neck, leading to text neck problems. It is happening.”

• Lack of awareness: Unfortunately, many schools promoting digital education fail to educate students about maintaining ideal posture and preventing discomfort.

• Lack of active lifestyle: Unlike previous generations, today’s children are inclined towards a sedentary lifestyle and excessive use of gadgets, and also spend less time on outdoor activities. “Without any stretching or inadequate physical activity, muscle strength and flexibility are more likely to decrease. Ultimately, this will increase the risk of neck and spine muscle strains and injuries,” says Dr. Tadagonda.

• Create an ergonomic study setup: Create a well-lit, ergonomic study area. Keep the computer screen at eye level to reduce forward slouching.
• Develop Postural Awareness: Let kids learn how to hold their devices and at what level and angle to keep an eye on them. This will reduce the need to bend their neck.
• Promote regular recess: Encourage children to follow the 20-20-20 rule. Let them practice relaxing their neck and eyes.
• Scheduled Screen Space: Give them screen space. But restrict it with set limits. It may be a tough push in the beginning. Ultimately, it may promote outdoor sports and hobbies.

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