Write an article about ‘Text neck syndrome’: when poor posture leads to pain .Organize the content with appropriate headings and subheadings (h1, h2, h3, h4, h5, h6), Retain any existing tags from ‘Text neck syndrome’, a relatively new condition, is caused by a prolonged forward head posture while looking down at screens. (Envato Elements pic)
KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysians rank among the highest number of digital users in Asia, with an average daily screen time of eight hours and 17 minutes. The country also has the third-highest TikTok usage in Southeast Asia, averaging an average of 121 videos viewed per day.
As a result, users may experience “text neck syndrome”, a relatively new condition that has emerged post-pandemic, noticeably among teenagers and young adults.
According to the health ministry, 67% of Malaysians experience neck pain, making it the second-most common musculoskeletal issue – yet many dismiss it as temporary or stress-related.
Poor workplace ergonomics compounds the issue, as many have to endure long hours with non-conducive desk setups. This prolonged strain is increasingly linked to higher rates of sick leave, reduced productivity, and declining performance in corporate environments.
According to orthopaedic, trauma and spine surgeon Dr Chang Kok Chun, text neck syndrome occurs when there is a repetitive stress injury caused by a prolonged forward head posture while looking down at screens.
Dr Chang Kok Chun.
Misalignment occurs when one’s head tilts forward by 45°, increasing the load on the cervical spine anywhere from 5kg to 22kg. This extra strain adds over 1,000 hours of stress on the spine annually, leading to symptoms like neck and shoulder pain, headaches, dizziness, and spinal nerve irritation.
“The muscles and joints in the neck undergo continuous strain due to poor posture. Over time, this causes muscle and joint fatigue, as well as discomfort. Left untreated, it could even result in structural damage,” Chang explained.
He urges Malaysians to pay closer attention to any pain they feel and to avoid ignoring it. Doing so could lead to premature degeneration of the spine, including thinning of the vertebrae discs, and the development of bone spurs and facet joint arthritis.
The latter – an irreversible condition – could further lead to nerve or spinal-cord compression, causing radiating pain, numbness, and/or tingling in the arms, forearms and hands.
In severe cases, it could even result in weakness or paralysis in the upper and lower limbs. Persistent pain can also impact mental health and overall wellbeing.
Ergonomic setups at work and home can help reduce strain on the neck and back, protecting spinal health. (Envato Elements pic)
Chang said managing text neck syndrome involves a combination of physiotherapy, lifestyle changes and, in some cases, medication.
Good ergonomic practices, including proper posture and regular neck relaxation exercises, are essential for managing this condition.
He acknowledged that while many are aware of the risks of text neck syndrome, breaking bad habits remain challenging owing to work requirements and everyday commitments.
He thus encourages Malaysians to make gradual improvements, such as adopting and maintaining proper posture, incorporating ergonomic setups at work and home, and carrying out regular neck exercises, to protect spinal health.
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