What is Text Neck Syndrome? A Sharp Bone Protruding from the Neck?

In today's digital age, smartphones have become an inseparable part of our daily lives. We wake up to check our phones and sleep after scrolling through them. But have you ever thought about the health consequences of constantly looking down at your phone? If not, it’s time you did. Text Neck Syndrome is a real and increasingly common condition caused by poor posture while using mobile devices. In severe cases, a sharp bone-like protrusion may develop at the base of the neck, causing chronic pain and long-term health issues.

What is Text Neck Syndrome?

Text Neck Syndrome is a modern musculoskeletal condition caused by prolonged bending of the neck while using smartphones, tablets, or laptops. The term was first coined by American chiropractor Dr. Dean Fishman in 2008. He observed that people tend to tilt their heads excessively downward while using their devices, which creates an abnormal load on the neck and shoulders.

How Much Pressure Does It Put on the Neck?

The human head weighs approximately 5–6 kg on average. When kept in a neutral upright position, the spine easily supports this weight. However, as you tilt your head forward:

• At 15 degrees: the pressure becomes 12 kg
• At 30 degrees: 18 kg
• At 60 degrees: a massive 27 kg

This unnatural posture for extended periods exerts tremendous stress on the cervical spine, leading to degeneration and pain.

Common Symptoms of Text Neck Syndrome

1.    Persistent neck pain

2.    Stiffness and tension in shoulders

3.    Headaches and migraines

4.    Spinal misalignment

5.    Tingling sensation or weakness in the arms

6.    Poor posture and slouching

7.    Mental fatigue and sleep disturbances

If these symptoms are ignored, they can worsen and lead to chronic conditions and reduced quality of life.

Why Does a Sharp Bone Form in the Neck?

Recent medical reports and X-rays have shown that many young people who spend excessive time on mobile phones develop a bony protrusion at the base of the skull. This phenomenon, medically known as Bone Spur or Exostosis, happens because the body tries to compensate for the abnormal stress and adds extra bone mass for support.

This sharp bone:

• Limits neck mobility
• Causes consistent pain and pressure
• May require surgical removal in extreme cases

Who Is Most at Risk?

1.    Teenagers and young adults who use phones for over 6–8 hours a day

2.    Remote workers who spend long hours on laptops without proper posture

3.    Students attending online classes or studying from screens

4.    Gamers and social media users who remain in one position for hours

How to Prevent Text Neck Syndrome

1. Keep the screen at eye level

Raise your phone or tablet so that you don't need to tilt your head downward.

2. Follow the 20-20-20 rule

Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds.

3. Do daily neck stretches

Perform gentle neck and shoulder exercises to maintain flexibility and relieve tension.

4. Maintain good posture

Sit upright with your back supported and feet flat on the ground. Avoid slouching or leaning forward.

5. Avoid phones before bedtime

Stop using your phone at least 30 minutes before sleep to reduce strain on the neck and mind.

How to Treat Text Neck Syndrome

If you already experience symptoms of Text Neck, these treatments can help:

• Physiotherapy: Consult a physiotherapist for guided neck release and posture correction exercises.
• Hot/cold therapy: Apply a heating pad or ice pack to the affected area for relief.
• Pain-relief medication: Use under a doctor’s guidance for acute pain.
• Posture correction braces: Devices to help maintain proper spinal alignment.
• Surgery: Reserved for rare, severe cases with structural damage.

Can Children Develop Text Neck?

Yes. Alarmingly, children as young as 8–10 years old are showing signs of text neck. With increased screen time due to online learning and gaming, their developing bodies are especially vulnerable. If this continues through adolescence, it could lead to long-term spinal deformities and stunted growth.

Balance Between Technology and Health is Essential

Technology offers incredible convenience, but it also comes with hidden costs. Text Neck Syndrome is a stark warning that digital habits need correction. Without moderation, this syndrome can affect physical development, posture, and overall well-being—especially in younger generations.

Text Neck Syndrome is not just about occasional neck pain—it’s a clear consequence of our modern lifestyle. The emergence of a sharp bone at the back of the neck is alarming and should not be taken lightly. It's time we act before this issue becomes a lifelong health burden. Reduce screen time, adopt good posture, and introduce regular movement into your routine. Small changes today can prevent major health issues tomorrow.

Disclaimer:

This article is meant for informational purposes only. If you are experiencing persistent pain or discomfort, please consult a qualified healthcare professional. The content here is not a substitute for medical diagnosis or treatment.