Tech neck (also referred to as “text neck”) is the term used to describe neck pain and postural strain caused by looking down at phones, tablets, or computers for extended periods. With Australians spending an average of 2–4 hours a day on handheld devices, this adds up to a staggering 700–1,400 hours a year of unnatural neck positioning—often with the head bent forward at sharp angles.

This seemingly harmless habit is placing an enormous strain on the cervical spine and surrounding muscles, leading to pain, poor posture, and long-term spinal issues.

• A 2021 systematic review published in BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders found that 60%–70% of smartphone users report neck and shoulder discomfort.

• A 2021 study in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health indicated that musculoskeletal symptoms, including neck pain, are three times more common among frequent smartphone users compared to infrequent users.

At our chiropractic centre in Newcastle, we are increasingly seeing younger patients presenting with symptoms that were once primarily observed in adults—including stiff necks, persistent headaches, shoulder tightness, and postural fatigue. Alarmingly, children as young as primary school age are now experiencing tech neck-related discomfort, largely due to prolonged screen use.

Recent research supports these clinical observations. According to a study published in the Journal of Physical Therapy Science, adolescents who spend more than 3 hours a day on mobile devices are significantly more likely to report neck and upper back pain. Additionally, a 2022 review in Healthcare (Basel) noted a strong correlation between poor digital device posture and altered cervical spine curvature in children and teens.

This is particularly concerning because the pediatric spine is still in its formative stages. Normal spinal curves—such as the cervical lordosis in the neck—are not fully developed until late adolescence. When children and teens consistently adopt a forward head posture (often 45 to 60 degrees while looking at a screen), the load on their neck increases exponentially, putting up to 27 kg of pressure on the cervical spine. Over time, this abnormal load can disrupt the natural growth of the spine and increase the risk of:

• Early-onset degenerative disc changes

• Chronic neck and back pain into adulthood

• Reduced respiratory efficiency due to compressed posture

• Fatigue, poor concentration, and reduced physical activity levels

The long-term implications go beyond physical discomfort. Poor posture has been linked to reduced self-esteem, poorer academic focus, and even increased levels of anxiety in teens. As chiropractors, we strongly advocate for early intervention, education, and posture-conscious technology use in children to help avoid these outcomes.

Tech neck may be a modern condition, but its impact is real and growing—especially in younger generations. Left unchecked, it can lead to chronic pain, tension headaches, and long-term postural changes. The good news? It’s preventable, manageable, and treatable with the right care.

If you or your child are experiencing neck discomfort, frequent headaches, or stiffness at the end of the day, don’t ignore the signs. Early intervention is key.

🔹 Want to learn more? Visit our Newcastle Neck Pain page to better understand the causes and chiropractic solutions available.
🔹 Ready to take action? Book an appointment online to have your tech neck assessed by an experienced chiropractor at our Newcastle clinic. We’re here to help restore balance, mobility, and comfort to your spine.