More and more people in our tech-ridden era are constantly, and even obsessively, looking down at mobile phones, tablets and laptops.
An article in the Washington Post points out that, according to research published in the National Library of Medicine by Kenneth K. Hansraj MD, the average human head weighs 10-12 pounds. At a 15 degree tilt it weighs about 27 pounds, and at a 30 degree tilt it weighs about 40 pounds. At a tilt of 60 degrees, a whopping 60 pounds of force is put on the spine.
This study shows the added stress that a head forward posture creates. Dr. Hansraj goes on to say that "these stresses may lead to early wear, tear, degeneration and possible surgeries."
What To Do
It's becoming obvious that the head forward posture associated with our smart phone lifestyle is creating not only chronic spinal problems and pain but can also lead to permanent spinal conditions over time.
- When using your phone or tablet try to avoid looking down for long periods. Try to be aware of your posture and avoid tilting your head forward throughout your normal daily routine.
- Take breaks and stretch periodically.
- Make sure that computer monitors are at eye level and you're not having to constantly look down at your monitor.
- Look down with your eyes, not your neck.