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“You’ve probably heard it a thousand times by now, but one of the most common pieces of advice I give patients with neck pain and headaches is to change their cell phone habits.” – David Woznica, MD, MS
In today’s digital world, our smartphones have become indispensable—but could they also be a hidden culprit behind your persistent headaches and neck pain?
The Connection Between Your Phone and Pain
Many individuals unknowingly suffer from a condition called cervicogenic headaches, which stem from issues in the neck. “These headaches often involve pain on one side of the neck and head, and in some cases, even radiate down the arm,” explains Dr. Woznica. Another variety can cause pain on both sides of the head and is common among people in occupations like hairdressing, carpentry, or driving—where neck positioning plays a major role.
One critical factor? Neck stability. “Many of my patients have hypermobility, repetitive stress injuries, or past sports/accident-related trauma that can weaken the deep tissues of the neck,” Dr. Woznica says. The spinal ligaments, which are responsible for stabilizing the spine, can become strained over time, leading to instability and discomfort.
The Hidden Impact of Looking Down at Your Phone
Now, what does this have to do with your smartphone? A lot, actually.
“When you look down at your phone for extended periods—whether for work, education, or let’s be honest, scrolling Instagram—you’re often at a 45-degree neck angle. That position forces your neck to rely on ligament stiffness, disc strength, and muscle engagement to maintain stability,” says Dr. Woznica.
Research shows that prolonged use of this posture reduces neck stiffness, increasing strain on deeper tissues. “Your neck muscles naturally want to conserve energy,” Dr. Woznica explains. “Over time, your body activates the cervical flexion relaxation response (FRP)—where the muscles disengage and shift the load onto the ligaments and discs, which weren’t designed to handle it alone.”
How to Prevent Neck Pain from Phone Use
Fortunately, there are ways to protect your neck and prevent these issues:
• Practice good posture when using electronic devices
• Take frequent breaks and stretch to relieve tension
• Limit screen time and be mindful of prolonged downward gaze
For those already experiencing neck instability, strengthening intrinsic neck muscles may help—but Dr. Woznica warns, “It’s essential to do this under the guidance of a physical therapist, as some marketed devices or online exercises may actually worsen pain.”
For persistent cases where therapy and medications don’t provide relief, prolotherapy and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) treatments can be an effective solution. “These treatments target weakened ligaments directly, promoting tissue repair and restoring stability,” Dr. Woznica explains. Administered with precision using fluoroscopy or ultrasound guidance, these regenerative injections can offer long-term relief from cervical instability.
Get a Personalized Treatment Plan
The best approach? Prevent the problem before it starts! Whether you’re constantly on your phone, laptop, or tablet, prioritizing proper ergonomics can save you from chronic discomfort.
If you’re already struggling with persistent neck pain or headaches, Dr. Woznica is here to help. He specializes in custom prolotherapy treatment plans tailored to your specific condition and lifestyle. From discussing the best treatment options to outlining the estimated number of sessions and costs, Dr. Woznica ensures you have all the information you need to start your recovery journey.
Don’t let your smartphone dictate your well-being—schedule a consultation today and take control of your neck health!
844-GO PROLO (844-467-7656)
www.wozwellness.com
