The weight seen by the spine dramatically increases when flexing the head forward at varying degrees. Loss of the natural curve of the cervical spine leads to incrementally increased stresses about the cervical spine. These stresses may lead to early wear, tear, degeneration, and possibly surgeries. While it is nearly impossible to avoid the technologies that cause these issues, individuals should make an effort to look at their phones with a neutral spine and to avoid spending hours each day hunched over. Cervical spine surgeons need to pay attention to the alignment and therefore to the stresses about the spine when performing anterior discectomies and fusion along with arthroplasties.
Assessment of Stresses in the Cervical Spine Caused by Posture and Position of the Head
by Kenneth Hansraj
https://cbsminnesota.files.wordpress.com/2014/11/spine-study.pdf
Has Bad Spines
by Brinton Parker
http://www.popsugar.com/tech/Texting-Leads-Bad-Posture-36145924
It had to happen someday — science was bound to uncover major health problems that result from texting. But now that Surgical Technology International is reporting the actual damage wrought on spinal cords by the body’s posture when texting, it’s starting to get scary. According to a study by back surgeon Kenneth Hansraj, the damage incurred by peering down at a cell phone screen is equal to placing a 60-pound weight around your neck.
The Atlantic reports that this weight is equivalent to six plastic bags of groceries, four bowling balls, or even an 8-year-old child. That sure doesn’t sound great for the neck! By looking down at your cell phone, you’re subjecting your spinal cord to serious damage . . . so it’s time to make some changes. Try holding your phone up to eye level rather than slouching to see the screen, or download iMessage to your desktop computer instead of texting.
Little changes like these will reduce the time your back spends slouched, which could save you from pain, degeneration, and even surgeries in future years. Try something new for your spine’s sake!