Pediatric Text Neck Syndrome

Abstract

Text neck syndrome is a growing concern in the pediatric population due to the increased use of mobile devices and screens, potentially leading to long-lasting musculoskeletal issues. This case report presents a six-year-old boy with a one-month history of cephalgia and cervicalgia, who initially received insufficient care. After nine months of chiropractic intervention, the patient reported significant improvements in pain relief, neck mobility, and neurological symptoms, supported by radiographic findings. This report emphasizes the importance of early recognition and intervention in pediatric patients, as well as the role of ergonomics, exercise, and proper smartphone usage habits in preventing text neck and maintaining spinal health.

Keywords: cervicogenic dizziness; cervicogenic dyspnea; cervicogenic headache; cervicogenic vertigo; chiropractic; chiropractor; text neck.

Figure 1. EOS® (EOS Imaging, Paris, France) full-spine radiography in sagittal view.

(A) Radiographic imaging of the cervical spine revealed a reduction in cervical lordosis (red line) before treatment. (B) At the nine-month follow-up, the patient’s cervical range of motion was improved bilaterally and cervical lordosis was restored (red line).

Figure 2. EOS® full-spine radiography in frontal view.

(A) Shoulder asymmetry and thoracic scoliosis were present before chiropractic intervention. The central sacral vertical line (yellow line) signifies the global axis. (B) At the nine-month reassessment, the patient showed notable improvements in postural balance. The radiographic parameter showed improvement of Cobb angle measurement from 14° (to the left) to 5° (to the right), and assessment of the central sacral vertical line (yellow line) revealed a considerable improvement in the coronal balance of spinal scoliosis.