The Truth About the Increasing "Straight Neck Double Chin" Among Young People — Ignoring It Could Lead to the Risk of Herniated Discs: A Comprehensive Guide from Causes to Solutions —

In today's world, where prolonged use of smartphones and computers has become the norm, more young people who are otherwise slim are noticing prominent double chins. One of the causes is "straight neck" or "text neck." Normally, the cervical spine forms a gentle S-shaped curve, but when it tilts forward, this curve is lost, causing the center of gravity of the head to shift forward. This results in the subcutaneous tissue around the jaw sagging, making it easier for a double chin to form even if the body fat percentage is low. Additionally, the load on the cervical spine increases, with reports indicating that the pressure on the intervertebral discs can reach up to five times the normal level. If left unaddressed, there is a risk of developing intervertebral disc herniation, chronic headaches, shoulder stiffness, and arm numbness. In recent years, the prevalence of straight neck among young people has been rising not only in Japan but also in Western countries and Australia, sounding the alarm as a "modern disease." This article comprehensively covers the mechanisms related to double chins, the process leading to herniation, self-check methods, physical therapy, exercises, daily posture improvement strategies, and the latest overseas research and trends such as "adult tummy time," in approximately 12,000 characters. At the end of the article, links to references and related news are provided for further exploration.