あなたは大丈夫？スマホ首、ストレートネックに注意！原因・症状・予防策を徹底解説

Are you okay? Beware of the modern disease "smartphone neck"! A thorough explanation of the causes, symptoms and prevention of straight neck

What is a straight neck?

Straight neck (smartphone neck) refers to a condition in which the cervical vertebrae (neck bones), which should be gently curved, become straight. The main cause is said to be the prolonged use of smartphones and computers, which leads to a posture in which the neck is tilted forward. In particular, in recent years, it has been spreading among younger generations, and it is said that about 80% of modern people tend to have straight neck (NBS Nagano Broadcasting, 2024).

Nagano Broadcasting Co., Ltd.
Severe pain... "Smartphone neck" Children are especially at risk for "straight neck" Approximately 80% of modern people suffer from this condition. We asked a doctor how to prevent it. Severe pain... "Smartphone neck" Children are especially at risk for "straight neck" Approximately 80% of modern people suffer from this condition. We asked a doctor how to prevent it.

The main causes of straight neck

  1. Prolonged use of smartphones and computers <br>Continuing to thrust your neck forward to look at the screen causes the natural curve of the cervical spine to be lost.
  2. Poor posture : If you make a habit of hunching your back or leaning forward, the weight of your head will put undue strain on your neck.
  3. Desk work environment <br>Factors such as the monitor height being incorrect or the chair being in an inappropriate position are contributing factors.
  4. The pillow is the wrong height . A pillow that is too high puts an excessive angle on your neck, which can disrupt the curvature of your cervical spine.

Main symptoms of straight neck

  • Neck and shoulder stiffness and pain
  • Headache or dizziness
  • Numbness in the hands
  • Worsening hunchback
  • Eye strain
  • Poor concentration

As stiff neck progresses, it can cause chronic pain and numbness due to nerve compression, interfering with your daily life.

How to self-check for straight neck

According to TBS NEWS DIG, there is an easy way to check for straight neck.

BSN NEWS
Now, put your back against the wall → You can find out if you have a "straight neck" | Niigata News and Weather | BSN NEWS... Straight neck, also known as "smartphone neck," is said to be one of the modern diseases. If you have poor posture when using a smartphone, computer, game, etc., which are often used in daily life, you may suffer from stiff shoulders, headaches, etc.
  1. Stand with your back against a wall
  2. With your heels, buttocks and shoulders against the wall, check that the back of your head touches the wall naturally.
  3. If the back of your head comes away from the wall, you may have a straight neck.

Preventing and improving straight neck

1. Be aware of correct posture

  • When looking at your smartphone, hold it up to eye level
  • Sit up straight and adjust your chair height when working at a desk

2. Make stretching and exercise a habit

SoftBank News (2020) introduces some simple stretches that can help prevent stiff neck.

Bringing IT closer to you. SoftBank Ni…
Do you have "smartphone neck"? Experts teach you the correct posture and stretching methods to relieve it - Make IT more familiar. ... We asked Jeong Shin-eui, a chiropractor who is also the creator of smartphone neck, to tell us about the causes and prevention of smartphone neck and straight neck, as well as simple stretches that can help improve it...
  • Chin pull exercise
    1. Keep your spine straight and your shoulders relaxed
    2. Pull your chin in gently and hold for 5 seconds
    3. Repeat 10 times
  • Back of neck stretch
    1. Place your hands behind your head and gently push forward
    2. Hold for 10 seconds and slowly release
    3. Repeat 3 times

3. Review your pillows and bedding

  • Choose a low pillow that supports the curve of your neck
  • Place a towel under your neck when sleeping on your back for added support

4. Lifestyle changes

  • Stand up every hour and do some light exercise such as rolling your shoulders.
  • By positioning the screen at eye level, you can prevent your posture from leaning forward.

summary

Straight neck can be prevented and improved by reviewing your daily posture and lifestyle habits. Especially in today's world where smartphone use is on the rise, it is important to consciously maintain good posture and incorporate stretching exercises. If you are suffering from chronic symptoms, you should also consider seeing a specialist.

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