‘Techno Neck’ Problem Is Increasing Among Young People

PHYSICAL Medicine and Rehabilitation Specialist Assoc. Dr. Hamza Sucuoğlu stated that neck pain in young people and children has become a serious health problem and said, “Intensive use of technological devices causes the ‘techno neck’ problem, known as pocket neck disease, in all age groups, especially young people and children.” he said.

Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Specialist Assoc. Prof. from Medipol Bahçelievler Hospital. Dr. Hamza Sucuoğlu stated that structural disorders occur in the neck muscles as a result of using devices such as mobile phones, tablets and computers in the wrong position for a long time, and that this situation has become widespread, especially in the child age group.

‘IT IS INCREASINGLY COMMON AMONG YOUTH AND CHILDREN’

Assoc. Prof. said that the increase in the use of technological devices, especially mobile phones, tablets and computers, increases the incidence of the disease. Dr. Sucuoğlu said, “While the load on the neck in the normal position of the head is 4-5 kilos, in the forward bending position this load can go up to 25-30 kilos. This situation can disrupt the structure of the discs between the vertebrae and lead to hernias.”

Assoc. Prof. stated that pocket neck disease used to be seen more in the adult age group. Dr. Sucuoğlu said, “As the use of technological devices has become widespread in children and young people in recent years, we have started to encounter them frequently in this age group. Especially from the age of 4-5, children’s use of tablets and phones for a long time poses a serious threat to neck health.”

‘RECOMMENDATIONS TO PREVENT POCKET NECK DISEASE’

Touching on the precautions to be taken to prevent techno neck disease, Assoc. Dr. Sucuoğlu suggested the following:

“Reduce phone and tablet usage time. It is important to prevent long-term usage habits, especially in children and young people. Keep devices at eye level. Using devices at eye level, if possible, will reduce neck curvature. Take regular breaks. When using devices, it is necessary to take short breaks at least every 30 minutes. Do neck exercises. Stretching and relaxation exercises that strengthen the neck muscles should be done regularly. Get into the habit of correct posture. Ergonomic arrangements should be made to prevent the neck and head from being tilted forward.”

‘WARNING TO FAMILIES AND TEACHERS’

Assoc. Prof. emphasized the role of families and teachers in preventing pocket neck disease. Dr. Sucuoğlu said, “Families should supervise their children’s use of technology and limit the time. Teachers in schools should teach students the habits of sitting correctly and using devices.” Assoc. Prof. stated that pocket neck disease, if left untreated, can lead to neck herniations, spinal curvatures and posture disorders. Dr. Sucuoğlu said, “This disease is not only limited to neck pain, but can also cause hunchback, neck flattening and spinal deformities. Therefore, early intervention is of great importance.”