If Text Neck Syndrome is not addressed promptly, it may lead to more severe long-term complications. Studies suggest that chronic neck pain and improper posture can contribute to premature degeneration of the cervical spine, potentially leading to conditions like cervical spondylosis or intervertebral disc degeneration. The spinal discs may start to lose their ability to absorb shock and may begin to degenerate, resulting in reduced disc height and increased stiffness in the neck.
In addition to cervical degeneration, untreated text neck can lead to a forward head posture becoming habitual, even when not using devices. This maladaptive posture can have adverse effects on the entire musculoskeletal system, impacting the shoulders, upper back, and even the lower back.
As text neck affects people of all ages, from children to older adults, the long-term consequences of this condition can be especially concerning for the younger generation. Prolonged text neck can interfere with the normal development of the cervical spine in children and adolescents, potentially leading to permanent postural issues if not corrected.