Technology Can Make You Sick!
By Sara Butler
Modern technology has helped to create some incredible advances for people around the globe, but it’s also brought with it some unexpected problems. The human body is meant to move a certain way. But since the evolution of the human body is a slow process, it’s up to you to make sure you’re caring for your body in the face of new technology that can impact your health. Here are a few of the problems technology can present that you should be on the lookout for and how your chiropractor can help!
Technologically Advanced Illness
If you’re an avid user of technology then you may find a few things on this list familiar:
- Blackberry thumb – This is pain around and in the joint of the thumb. It can lead to degeneration of the joint and arthritis, caused by using thumbs to text messages on mobile devices.
- Cell phone elbow – This is entrapment of the ulnar nerve in the elbow by prolonged periods of bending at the elbow caused by holding cell phones.
- Acute Wii-itis – This is a repetitive strain injury in the spine or upper extremities caused by people who have been inactive suddenly participating in vigorous movements on motion sensitive console video game systems such as the Wii.
The technology is advancing faster than your body can keep up with it, and any participation in repetitive motions can cause problems in your muscles, nerves, tendons, and other soft tissues. What makes this phenomenon even more concerning is its impact on younger people. Chiropractors are seeing more children between the ages of 3 and 9 with injuries associated with technology that's unusual for children that age. Spinal pain, joint dysfunction, and pain in the extremities are just a few of the symptoms children are now complaining of.
Prevention
The number one goal of individuals and parents should be to prevent these injuries in the first place. In order to reduce the risk of these injuries you need to:
- Avoid overuse – If you can limit the use of tablets, smartphones, and other technology during the day it will help. Instead of texting someone, go see them!
- Go hands-free – If your phone has a feature where you don’t have to use your hands you should use it as much as possible. This will help relieve the stress and strain put on your neck, elbows and shoulders.
- See the chiropractor – Nip misalignments and muscle imbalances in the bud by seeing your chiropractor on regular basis!
If you have questions about injuries related to technology you should talk to your chiropractor during your next visit to The Joint Chiropractic.