1. Introduction
text neck syndrome, pain, neck pain, Musculoskeletal pain, disability
COVID-19 (CORONAVIRUS DISEASE 2019), VIRUS, DISEASE, SYNDROME, STRETCHES, NECK SYNDROME
The current era has seen a pandemic situation caused by the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19), which has resulted in erratic challenges around the world. To limit the spread of the virus and protect people from the harmful effects of the disease, a “lockdown” has been chosen as the first line of defense, along with other measures such as social distancing and restricting gatherings in society. This scenario has created a rise in the use of smartphones by people of all ages, creating an immense influence on education, the health sector, business sector, and social life as well. Teenagers are using cellphones more frequently, which is causing a rise in musculoskeletal issues. With the increasing size of cell phones and more screen time, postural abnormalities are becoming more prevalent.The improper and prolonged use of smartphones has led to a cluster of symptoms commonly known as “text neck syndrome.”Text neck syndrome can also be considered as 21st century syndrome due to numerous reporting cases. Musculoskeletal pain especially neck pain is a public health condition in modern time.Warm-up exercises, stretches, rest, ice/heat, massage, posture correction, and lifestyle changes may help acute text neck symptoms. Chronic cases may benefit from physical therapy, medication, injections, manipulation, and acupuncture.In text neck syndrome pain is caused by mostly by stiff trapezius and levator scapulae.This syndrome has become a new health concern worldwide and affects the huge population. Adolescent smartphone users increase day by day and have a lot of musculoskeletal conditions. The size of cell phones become bigger day by day and demands more screen time. Prolonged duration of flexed posture while looking down on a screen leads to pain intensity and disability in cervical spine. Few studies have been conducted on the physical therapy management of text neck syndrome than those on prevalence and awareness. Hence, this study aimed to examine the effects of post-facilitation stretching versus ELDOA treatment on mobile users experiencing text neck syndrome during the COVID-19 pandemic.