Tablets, smartphones blamed for rise in shoulder injuries

Tablets and smartphones may be gaining in popularity but they may also be a growing pain in the neck literally, a United Kingdom-based shoulder doctor said.

 

UK shoulder doctor Tony Kochhar said the devices are causing a rise in shoulder injuries, according to a report on tech site PC World.

 

"Kochhar says that he has been treating up to 20 patients a week for shoulder problems caused by using iPads, also known as 'iPad Shoulder,'" PC World said.

 

Even smartphone owners suffer similar symptoms, Kochhar said, as they hold their gadgets between the ear and shoulder, and look downward to do frequent texting and browsing.

 

"Holding the tablet lower down means users have to gaze downwards more sharply. This is increasing the pressure on their joints," he said.

 

To prevent shoulder injuries, Kochhar suggested that users of tablets and smartphones not hunch over the device. Instead, they should keep the screen at level with their faces, he added.

 

Also, he recommended taking regular breaks and performing gentle neck and shoulder stretches.

 

Kochhar also reminded users to switch the iPad from one arm to another, and to watch out for signs of "iPad Shoulder" such as:

 

 

–KG, GMA News