“Text neck” is a term used to describe the posture created by leaning the head forward for prolonged periods, often while looking at a mobile phone or working on a laptop.

When we lean forward, the load placed on the cervical spine increases dramatically. A head that weighs approximately 4.5-6 kg in a neutral position can exert up to 27 kg of force on the neck when tilted forward by 60 degrees.
Let that sink in: 27 kg of pressure for your neck, spine, and upper back to support.

To help visualise this, consider a simple experiment. Next time you are at the gym, load a barbell with 27 kg and try to lift it. Many of us would struggle to move it, let alone carry it. Now imagine this level of strain placed on your body every day through forward head posture and rounded shoulders.

Over time, this posture can contribute to significant health issues:
-Pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility in the neck, shoulders, and upper back
-Tingling, numbness, or weakness radiating down the arms and hands
-Changes to the curvature of the cervical spine, including thoracic kyphosis (also known as Dowager’s Hump)
-Reduced lung capacity and shallow breathing patterns

The good news is that, in most cases, the effects of text neck can be improved and often reversed with correct posture, mindful movement, and targeted exercises.

Curious to learn how? Stay tuned for the upcoming posts.