Smartphones have become a staple of modern communication, connecting us in ways unimaginable a few decades ago. However, this convenience comes with a price—our health. The constant use of smartphones is contributing to an increase in headaches and migraines, a link many people remain unaware of.
Our migraine specialists and pain management experts at the Headache, Migraine & Concussion Centre (HMCC) have observed a growing trend: an increasing number of patients are experiencing migraines triggered by “text neck.”
The Link Between Smartphones and Migraines
According to our migraine specialist, many individuals don’t realize how their smartphone habits affect their health.
“We’re seeing more people complain of headaches without realizing that their smartphones may be part of the problem,” says our migraine specialist.
The issue lies in the combination of poor posture and prolonged screen time. Texting often involves looking down at your phone, which places significant strain on your neck and upper spine. This posture, referred to as Forward Head Posture (FHP) or “text neck,” can lead to tension in the cervical spine, a common trigger for migraines.
How Poor Posture Triggers Migraines
When you bend your neck forward to look at your phone, you increase the load on your neck muscles. Over time, this strain causes discomfort and may contribute to migraines.
Our migraine specialists explain, “The blue light from phone screens can irritate your eyes, compounding the issue. The upper part of your neck—where migraines often originate—is under constant strain when you’re looking down at your phone.”
Migraines go beyond a typical headache, presenting with debilitating symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound.
Texting by the Numbers
- The statistics are staggering:
- In 2023, Canadians spent an average of 5.5 hours daily on their smartphones.
- Over 95% of text messages are read within three minutes of being received.
Our reliance on texting has made it the preferred method of communication, but this modern convenience has health implications. During the COVID-19 pandemic, with more people working from home, neck and back pain became increasingly common. In fact, nearly 65% of remote workers reported experiencing discomfort related to posture.
Tips to Reduce Migraine Triggers from Text Neck
Our experts emphasize that prevention is key. While giving up smartphones is unrealistic, adopting healthier habits can help minimize strain and reduce the risk of migraines.
- Use voice-to-text tools: “Instead of typing everything out, use speak-to-text,” suggests our migraine specialist.
- Improve posture: Keep your phone at eye level to reduce neck strain.
- Take breaks: Avoid prolonged periods of screen time by incorporating regular breaks.
- Blue light filters: Use screen protectors or apps to reduce blue light exposure.
“It’s a modern problem without a perfect solution,” admit our migraine experts. “But even small changes can make a big difference in reducing the strain caused by excessive phone use.
While these tips can help, our experts acknowledge, “It’s a modern problem without a perfect solution. But even small changes can make a big difference.”
Seeking Relief from Migraine Pain
If you’re struggling with migraines triggered by posture or smartphone use, the Headache, Migraine & Concussion Centre can help. Our medical team of specialists provides tailored treatments designed to address the root causes of migraines.
Additional Resources
For more tips on managing migraines, check out these blog posts:
- 7 Common Migraine Triggers and How to Avoid Them
- The Role of Diet in Managing Migraines
- Understanding the Link Between Stress and Migraines
