Teenagers get headaches too! In my North Dallas chiropractic practice, an increasing number of preteens, tweens, and teenagers are having headaches related to their posture during cell phone and electronic usage.
In 2016, researchers at Curtin University in Perth examined the seated posture and health data of 1,108 17-year-olds. This was in an effort to determine if any particular posture increased the risk of headaches/neck pain among late adolescents.
Participants with depression had higher ratios of slumped posture and head forward positioning. Participants that exercised more frequently demonstrated more upright posture. Taller people and females were also more likely to have better postures. Those who were overweight were more likely to have poorer posture.
Biopsychosocial factors like exercise frequency, depression, and body mass index (BMI) ARE associated with headaches and neck pain. Data from this study however did not suggest any one particular posture increased the risks for the teenagers involved in the study.
Neck Pain & Headache Studies For Teens
This is noteworthy as studies with adults do indicate the risk for neck pain and headaches. They are greater in individuals with poor neck posture. In particular, postures such as forward head carriage, pinching a phone between the ear and shoulder, and prolonged neck/head rotation outside of neutral can all increase the risk of cervical disorders. This suggests that the cause of neck pain and headaches in younger patients has more than one cause. Successful treatment must address more than posture in order to get the best outcomes.
The good news is that chiropractic has long embraced the biopsychosocial model of healthcare! Chiropractors look at ALL factors that can affect back and neck pain and quality of life as part of their consultation process. Through patient education, spinal manipulation, mobilization, exercise training, the use of modalities, and more, chiropractors can greatly help those struggling with neck pain and headaches!
If you are searching for headache pain relief for children in North Dallas, consider a chiropractic consultation with Dr. Woodward.
