Many people say that mobile technology has ruined the art of conversation, with people answering texts from other people even if they’re already sitting face-to-face with someone else. But conversation isn’t the only thing that mobile messaging seems to have ruined: a recent feature on ScienceDaily.com says that spending too much time with your nose buried in your smart phone may actually cause muscle stress, creating the condition tagged as “text neck.”

“Text neck,” a term first coined by a chiropractor in Florida, refers to “overusing” the head, neck, and shoulders by looking down and leaning forward for long periods of time. This causes strain on the spine.

Although primarily caused by strain due to phone fiddling, this condition isn’t limited to those who are glued to their mobile devices. “Text neck” may also affect people who are constantly bent over their desks while working. In order to avoid this condition, try to take breaks, and change your position once in a while. Stretching every few minutes can also help you relax. Check out this video on how to ease muscle strain at work.

(Photo by Matt Tillett via Flickr Creative Commons)