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‘TEXT NECK’ or ‘PHONECK PAIN’ – BLAME YOUR SMART PHONES

Most people, when they experience neck pain, blame it on their pillow, work, weight of bag, and every possible reason they can think of. However, research studies are finding a strong connection between smart phone surfing and neck pain, irrespective of age and gender. So much so, that they have actually coined this condition ‘Text Neck’.

We have coined another term for it as ‘PHONECK PAIN’.

Hours of bending your neck to surf through your smart phone, tablet and other gadgets lay additional stress on your neck, leading to pain. A study by a leading hospital in India found that almost 79 percent of the population between the age group of 18 and 44 have their cell phones with them almost all the time. The result – stiffness, neck pain, soreness, back pain and possibly early onset of arthritis of the neck!

In some neglected cases of ‘Text Neck’ or ‘Phoneck Pain’ have even lead to severe cramps in the shoulders, headaches and dizziness. So, if you find yourself reaching for the commercial painkiller regularly for neck pain, you may be yet another victim of ‘Text Neck’ or ‘Phoneck Pain’.

 

Managing the ‘Text Neck’ or ‘Phoneck Pain’

‘Text Neck’ or ‘Phoneck Pain’ is largely caused by bad posture and continuous tilt of the head; correcting these postures is the first step to treat a smart phone induced stiff neck. Other than this, since most people don’t realize they are suffering from chronic pain, they reach out for a painkiller whenever they feel the need. This can be quite harmful in the long run as most pain killers tend to negatively impact the liver, kidney and other major organs over long term use. Thus, holistic management of chronic pain which is safe and effective must be considered.

Some people need to visit the chiropractor for relief from constant stiffness and soreness in the neck owing to severe inflammation as well as weakened neck muscles. However, most options are largely short term solutions with some kind of adverse side effects.

 

Go Herbal

The multitude side effects caused by several conventional medicines, have most people shifting to natural and herbal remedies. Along with treating your symptoms, herbs are known to decrease inflammation and other pain factors. And many research studies have found that herbal remedies are equally effective as any painkiller and that too without any risk of adverse effect.

 

More commonly used herbs for the management of chronic pain:

Withania (Ashwagandha): This herb is a natural anti-inflammatory and is used to treat pain. Withania exhibits significant analgesic activity by blocking pain receptors. It is commonly used in variety of musculoskeletal conditions (e.g., arthritis, rheumatism), and as a general tonic to increase energy. Besides this, it helps to reduce stress/anxiety, improve overall health and longevity, and prevent degenerative diseases.

Ginger (Shunthi): When ingested, this herb relieves pain and reduces inflammation. In addition, Shunthi also aids digestion and promotes healthy blood circulation. Shunthi exerts anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting the production of proinflammatory cytokines and down regulates the expression of pain pathways.

 

Axe the ‘Text Neck’ or ‘Phoneck Pain’ with CHROPAXE

So, if you are suffering from ‘Text Neck’ or ‘Phoneck Pain’ and want to switch from your commercial painkillers, Charak has a solution for you. A complete herbal and natural formulation, CHROPAXE by Charak, is all you need to holistically manage chronic pain. Herbs like Withania (Ashwagandha), Valeriana (Tagar), Ginger (Shunthi) and Tribulus (Gokshur), among others, are scientifically researched and proven to relieve chronic pain.  CHROPAXE exhibits multifaceted actions to control chronic pain by reducing pain hypersensitivity, increasing pain threshold and controlling anxiety/stress related to chronic pain.

 

Tips to Prevent ‘Text Neck’ or ‘Phoneck Pain’

  • Keep your phone/tablet/gadgets at eye level to avoid tilting head down for long periods.
  • Sit straight and don’t slouch as it could lead to spinal problems.
  • Take breaks every 20-30 minutes while surfing on your phone/tablet/gadgets.
  • Look at a distance or stand up and walk after every 30 minutes to prevent stiffness in neck muscles.
  • Perform basic neck exercises daily.

Thus, simple steps in time and a few minutes away from your phone can significantly reduce symptoms of ‘Text Neck’ or ‘Phoneck Pain’ and keep you pain-free.

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