Inflammation: Heart Health

Reviewed by: Dr. Steven Knauf, D.C.

By: Brandi Goodman

In today's world, cell phones are practically glued to our hands—adults and kids alike. While we grown-ups juggle work emails, social media, and the occasional game of Candy Crush, our kids are diving into the digital ocean headfirst. But here's the million-dollar question: Are these pocket-sized gadgets actually helpful for our little ones? Sure, they can be a lifeline for keeping in touch, but beyond that, are they really benefiting our kids or just hijacking their childhood? Let's explore whether handing over a smartphone is a smart move or a digital disaster in disguise.

Benefits of cell phone use for children

Children can gain several benefits from using cell phones. If they are away from home and need to communicate with their parents or guardians, then a phone comes in handy. There are also educational apps that prove worthwhile for learning and other apps such as games and streaming services that can provide entertainment. The tracking devices on phones help parents monitor their children’s whereabouts, which is certainly a good thing.

Potential drawbacks of cell phone use for children

The drawbacks of cell phone use for children make them worrisome. Poor posture, an impact on mental health, and exposure to blue light are common problems for those who use phones regularly. Although occasional use is fine, children should not be using phones regularly in order to avoid these issues.

How parents can foster a child’s healthy relationship with technology

To foster a healthy relationship between children and technology, it's helpful for parents to establish some guidelines. For example, children under the age of five might benefit from limited exposure (or no exposure) to phones, tablets, and related devices. As kids reach school age and start spending time away from home, providing a phone for communication can be practical. Ensuring parental controls are in place and limiting access to texting or calling specific numbers can help manage their tech use effectively.

It's a good idea to encourage phone-free times that promote better family bonding, such as during meals and at night. Keeping phones away from kids at bedtime can help avoid disruptions to their sleep patterns caused by blue light. Creating these tech-free moments can foster healthier habits and stronger connections within the family.

Signs a child might be experiencing negative effects from cell phone use

If your child is constantly feeling tired or showing signs of low self-esteem, impaired cognitive function, or impulsivity, cell phone use might be a factor. Consider keeping an eye on their phone activities to see which apps they’re using and check their texts to ensure they're not being exposed to any unkind messages. Bullying can be a real concern for kids on social media, and a bit of parental monitoring can help mitigate these negative impacts.

What is tech neck and how does it affect children?

Tech neck is another serious possibility from regular phone use. It happens when a person spends too much time looking down at his or her phone. Their neck is bent at a forward angle, with added pressure on their neck and shoulders from their head. A forward head tilt of 45 to 60 degrees generates 50 to 60 pounds of pressure on the neck. Over time, this can lead to pain and even a hump in the neck that is difficult to correct as the neck joints start to naturally fuse in order to withstand the pressure caused by the forward tilt of the head. It may also lead to osteoarthritis. According to the Mayo Clinic, people should only spend about three hours 15 minutes daily on their phone.

Risks of repetitive strain injuries from cell phone use

Repetitive strain injuries are possible from cell phone use. Constantly lowering your neck to look down at a phone can cause severe strain in your neck muscles, which can lead to tightness and pain. Eventually, it may even destroy the joints in this area. Strain injuries are also common in the hands due to the way you hold the phone, as well as the motion your hand and fingers make while texting or “typing” on the device.

Strategies to prevent tech neck

It's a good idea for children and adults to limit time spent on cell phones and other devices that require looking down. If using a phone is necessary, consider a tool that holds the phone at eye level to avoid repeated downward glances. Incorporating regular stretches and exercises to strengthen the neck and shoulders can also help prevent tech neck.

How does blue light from cell phones affect children before bedtime?

The effects of blue light cause melatonin suppression and affect sleep. Avoid letting your child use a phone or tablet before bedtime, as any lights at night can trick their bodies into thinking it is still daytime. Whether fluorescent light, red light, blue light, or otherwise, it makes it harder to fall asleep and stay asleep, and interrupts the body’s normal circadian rhythm. No one should look at any light-emitting devices at least an hour before bedtime to avoid this struggle.

Mental health impacts of social media on children and teens

Social media can significantly impact mental health, especially for children and teens using social media platforms like TikTok, Snapchat, and Instagram. They might encounter inappropriate messages or feel pressured to compare themselves to peers and celebrities. Often, the images they see are enhanced with photo editors and filters, making them unrealistic and unattainable. It can be beneficial to limit social media exposure for kids to help reduce potential feelings of depression and anxiety. It's also helpful to talk to your children about the reality of online content, explaining that not everything they see is real and that many photos are heavily edited.

How labeling social media use could impact kids

The Surgeon General recommends that social media come with a warning, like cigarette labeling. They say that social media is a public health crisis facing our youth. Some states are already following suit and passing their own bills related to social media use for children. The New York Times reported that New York’s governor signed a bill for the “Safe for Kids Act” that requires social media sites to restrict notifications during the hours of midnight and 6 AM. It also requires parental controls and better age verification policies, as well as calls for sites and apps to reduce the use of addictive feeds that target those younger than 18 years of age. The New York Attorney General will need to make specific guidelines before this bill becomes law.

How can children maintain a healthy balance between cell phone use and physical activities?

Encouraging a healthy balance between cell phone use and physical activity can be beneficial for kids. Consider setting some limits on screen time and promoting outdoor play for at least an hour each day. Planning family days with physical activities like going to the park, riding bikes, playing outdoor games, or disc golfing can be a fun way to stay active together. Keeping phones at home or in the car during these activities can help everyone stay present and engaged.

Whatever you decide, get chiropractic care

Whether you choose to allow your child to use a cell phone or not, chiropractic care can significantly enhance the well-being of children and teens. Consider bringing your child to your local The Joint Chiropractic clinic for an adjustment to help keep their body in optimal shape. For kids who use cell phones regularly, chiropractic care can be especially beneficial in managing the effects of tech neck and maintaining healthy joints. Starting healthy habits early can make a big difference in their overall health.

The information, including but not limited to text, graphics, images, and other material contained on this page, is for informational purposes only. The purpose of this post is to promote broad consumer understanding and knowledge of various health topics, including but not limited to the benefits of chiropractic care, exercise, and nutrition. It is not intended to provide or be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your chiropractor, physician, or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment and before undertaking a new health care regimen, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this page.