You’ve Got a Severe Case of iHunch, Thanks to Your Smartphone

The excessive use of handheld devices has led to awkward postures that affect memory, mood and confidence.

iHunch, Text Neck and iPosture: The ever-increasing use of technology affects us mentally and physically. (Photo: iStock)

The incessant use of phones and other such devices seems to be a global phenomenon, with social etiquette often ignored in favour of being logged in during dinners and when using public transport ride.

A report by Amy Cuddy in The New York Times suggests that such patterns of usage are affecting us more seriously than simply restricting our social skills. According to the report, our smartphones are ruining our posture. This doesn’t just mean a stiff neck, but also harm caused in “insidious psychological ways.”

Constant use of your phone, tablet or laptop could cause an inward curve in your spine. (Photo: iStock)

Excessive usage of handheld technology has led to users contorting their bodies in a manner New Zealand physiotherapist Steve August calls the ‘iHunch’, sometimes also called ‘Text Neck’ and ‘iPosture’.

A study published earlier this year, concluded that posture affected a candidate’s answers in an interview; slouchers performed significantly worse than those who sat upright. Many other studies establish the effect bad posture can have on one’s memory and retention, as well as their general disposition too.

Fight the Hunch

Cuddy stresses the need to focus on good posture – keeping your head up and shoulders back – during all activities, including using a phone. She also suggests that regular stretching and massaging the two important muscle groups (between the shoulder blades and the muscles along the neck) is important.

Consciously fighting the hunch is sure to imporve your mood, confidence and memory.