The Younger Generation of the Heads-Down Tribe! A 9-Year-Old Girl as a Chronic Smartphone User Neck Pain, Finger Numbness, and Cervical Spine Condition Resembling that of a 50-Year-Old Person, Explained by a Chiropractor

The majority of modern individuals have become part of the "Heads-Down Tribe," constantly engaged in activities that involve looking down, such as excessive smartphone usage. This not only harms the eyes but also poses problems for the cervical spine, leading to issues like neck pain, finger numbness, and even premature aging of the cervical spine. A 9-year-old girl in Hangzhou, China, who is a chronic smartphone user, sought medical attention due to frequent symptoms of neck soreness, finger numbness, and more. To her surprise, the medical examination revealed that her cervical spine had prematurely aged to that of a 50-year-old individual. Furthermore, the curvature of her cervical spine had reversed, resulting in a straight alignment instead of the normal forward curve resembling a "C" shape. This indicates a severe condition. In light of this, the editor interviewed registered chiropractor Yau Hoi Ying to gain insights into the problems faced by the heads-down tribe and their associated pain symptoms.


According to reports from mainland media sources, the girl in question is a smartphone addict. In addition to doing homework, she enjoys playing with her smartphone for consecutive hours. After receiving treatment, her symptoms have improved to some extent. Specialized doctors have stated that children with cervical spine issues may experience developmental effects on their vertebrae. In severe cases, it can even lead to memory decline, dizziness, and visual impairments, among other conditions. The impact can be far-reaching. Therefore, parents should pay more attention to their children's lifestyle habits.

Experts point out that many heads-down users adopt poor postures while using their smartphones, such as excessively bending their necks. The lower the head position, the greater the amount of pressure the neck has to bear. For example, when the neck is at a 15-degree angle, it bears a weight equivalent to 27 pounds. However, when the neck is at a 45-degree angle, the weight it bears increases to a staggering 49 pounds. Over time, this excessive pressure on the neck can lead to neck strain, resulting in symptoms such as neck pain, shoulder pain, and arm pain. If the nerves are compressed, numbness can occur, and in severe cases, it may lead to headaches, nausea, and a sense of heaviness.

In fact, sometimes neck pain and headaches may not be solely attributed to a single issue but could potentially be caused by developing trapezius muscle pain. Registered chiropractor Yau Hoi Ying also points out that common trapezius muscle pain sufferers are often part of the phubbers, such as computer workers who have a habit of shrugging their shoulders or sleeping in a prone position, as well as athletes involved in repetitive shoulder movements. The causes of trapezius muscle pain include misalignment of the cervical spine, loss of the natural curvature of the neck, trigger points within the trapezius muscle, and muscle spasms. These conditions often arise from poor daily posture or repetitive movements. While accidental injuries can also be a factor, they are less common. In addition to experiencing pain, many girls are concerned about the appearance-related issues that may arise, such as rounded shoulders, forward head posture, and a hunched back. These concerns can limit the range of motion and mobility of the neck and shoulders. Yau Hoi Ying emphasizes that although many people regularly receive massages or use massage guns, these methods only provide temporary or short-term relief.

According to registered chiropractor Yau Hoi Ying, the majority of individuals with trapezius muscle pain are commonly found among the heads-down tribe. This includes computer workers who tend to shrug their shoulders, individuals with a habit of sleeping in a prone position, and athletes involved in activities that strain the shoulders.