social media and stress on the spine Ottawa and Kanata, ON

Social Media & Stress on the Spine

According to numerous surveys, the use of mobile devices (tablets, smartphones, and e-readers) is growing each year. These devices are used for socializing, playing games, research and are increasingly utilized by teachers both in and out of the classroom to set specific tasks to complete.

While it is great that such versatile technology is more readily available, it is the effect on the body that is most concerning to us at Ottawa Health Group. In a 3 year study of 1049 people, “70% of adults and 30% of children and teens reported that their use of electronic devices like smartphones, tablets, and laptop devices had caused neck, shoulder, wrist or finger pain”.[1]

At Ottawa Health Group, we believe this has a lot to do with the neck position and posture required to operate these devices.

Forces throughout the neck are as follows:

  • In a neutral neck position (0 degrees), the average human exerts a force of 4.5-5.5 kgs
  •  At 15 degrees, the head exerts 12.3 kgs
  • At 30 degrees, the head exerts 18.2 kgs
  • At 45 degrees, the head exerts 22.3 kgs
  • At 60 degrees, the head exerts a force of 27.3 kgs on the cervical spine (neck)- Anyone who observes the posture of people using mobile devices knows that the posture depicted at 60 degrees is not uncommon.

The mechanical stresses caused by mobile devices lead to incrementally increased stresses about the spine. These stresses can lead to neck pain, shoulder problems, headaches and early wear and tear to the spinal joints (i.e. spinal degeneration). [2]

This should be a significant concern for digital media users and parents.

posture-analysis

What Can You Do?

  • Encourage the use of ergonomically designed desktop arrangements where possible.
  • Encourage good posture in those using mobile devices by getting them to raise the device to eye level, rather than bending their head to look down.
  • Encourage regular breaks that include stretching when using mobile devices.
  • Consult your chiropractor, to assess and correct any dysfunctional movement patterns in the neck, upper back, and shoulders.

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