'Tech neck' hazard for young smartphone users
Study links heavy smartphone use to "forward head posture" in young adults, increasing spinal strain.
Why it matters
- Tech neck can cause chronic pain and early spinal problems.
By the numbers
- 10-pound increase in spinal weight per inch of forward head posture.
- 27 pounds at 15 degrees tilt, 60 pounds at 60 degrees.
The big picture
- Experts warn of a "silent pandemic" affecting spines globally.
- Children are at higher risk due to developing spines.
What they're saying
- Dr. Harrop: Tech advances outpace human evolution.
- Lindsay Orosz: Children especially vulnerable to spinal issues.
Caveats
- Some compare it to historical jobs requiring similar postures.
What’s next
- Educational campaigns and neck exercises to mitigate effects.