Is Modern Life Hurting Your Spine?
There are theories that many modern devices are technologies that are just an extension of the human body. It isn’t easy to disagree with these theories, considering how many hours we spend with them.
During any given day, most people spend most of their time in front of screens or working with various devices. The time spent with devices exceeds the time spent exercising or interacting with people and nature. So, naturally, such prolonged interactions will alter the human body and may also cause health problems like posture changes and spine issues.
Tech Neck and Posture Problems
It isn’t easy to imagine that computers and devices we spend most of our time with were barely there 3-4 decades back, and here we are now, spending our whole day with them. Regretfully, giving up all this tech or devices is not an option for most of us. Hence, we need to be aware of how these devices are spoiling our health.
People are now hooked to screens of phones, tablets, and laptops for prolonged hours. They do not move much and sit for long hours in specific postures. This not only causes excessive spinal strain but may also cause some permanent changes in the posture. Some of those changes are associated with a greater risk of spinal pain or problems.
Poor posture causes tension, stiffness, and chronic neck pain. Also, poor posture may cause tension headaches, increasing the risk of migraines.
Poor posture also reduces lung capacity, affecting oxygen intake and energy levels. Spinal misalignment that occurs due to prolonged use of devices and gadgets may have a widespread adverse impact on overall health.
Some Early Warning Signs of Posture Problems
Health experts always say to listen to your body, as it always provides some early signs like neck stiffness and shoulder and back pain. Many might develop a hump at the base of the neck (Dowager’s hump).
Also, listen to some other early signs of spine problems like a tingling sensation in harm or hands, frequent headaches, and feeling fatigued or weak. One may also experience discomfort looking straight ahead and many other issues.
Preventing Tech Neck and Poor Posture
As devices cannot be avoided, start with ergonomics, which means making your working space better by fixing certain issues like adjusting screen height and using the right kind of chair that supports your spine.
Yet, another way is to take micro-breaks every 30-60 minutes. One can also use technology to assist in these efforts, as many smartwatches can remind a person to start moving. During these short breaks, one can do certain exercises like stretching and back-strengthening exercises. Training core muscles also helps improve posture.
There are a few other ways, like improving sleep hygiene and reducing screen time. No matter how many precautions one takes, the body and posture will suffer if one spends 8-10 or more hours with various devices.
The modern lifestyle is hurting our spine, altering posture, and creating various spinal problems. Stopping use of these devices may not be an option, but their adverse impact on health and the spine can be countered through other lifestyle measures.
At iOrtho – The Orthopedic Institute, we have many treatment options for patients dealing with spinal pain or injury. Our doctors treat spine conditions with the latest and most cutting-edge technology and research. Contact us to explore your treatment options.
