Surge in ‘Tech Neck’ Cases in Australia: A Call for Awareness and Action

Rising Health Concerns Linked to Device Use

Australian healthcare providers are witnessing a significant uptick in patients suffering from ‘tech neck’, a condition that arises from excessive use of mobile devices. Recent statistics from Simply Nootropics indicate a staggering 304% increase in Australians seeking information about ‘tech neck’ in 2025, highlighting a shift in health issues related to prolonged screen time and doomscrolling habits. This condition, commonly referred to as ‘tech neck’, manifests as stiffness and discomfort in the neck, particularly when individuals use smartphones or tablets while lying down.

Expert Insights on the Implications of Tech Neck

Dr. Brain Ramos, a neuroscientist and researcher at Simply Nootropics, has raised concerns about the long-term effects of these trends on both physical and mental health. He remarked, “The long-term consequences of habitual doomscrolling remain uncharted; we are uncertain about its effects on the body. We anticipate that it may disrupt healthy neuroplasticity in the brain over time, with early signs of pathological doomscrolling—like ‘tech neck’—emerging in younger individuals as a warning signal.”

Physiotherapist Adam Monteith from Evoke has noted a marked increase in patients presenting with neck, shoulder, and upper back pain directly linked to excessive scrolling in bed. He explained, “We’re observing a clear rise in cases related to poor posture while using devices. Many individuals use inadequate pillows, hunch their shoulders, and hold their phones at awkward angles, leading to significant strain on the neck, thoracic spine, and wrists.”

The Dangers of Poor Posture

Monteith emphasized that neglecting proper posture can lead to temporary discomfort evolving into serious medical issues. “The human head weighs around 5–6 kg. When you spend an hour in bed with your chin jutting forward and your spine unsupported, you’re exerting immense pressure on your neck and upper back. Over weeks and months, this can result in tendon damage, nerve compression, and conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome.”

He cautioned, “The critical moment occurs when these problems persist despite rest. If you’re altering your daily activities to avoid discomfort or frequently reaching for pain relief, it’s essential to reevaluate your technology habits.”

Recognizing the Early Signs of Tech Neck

Monteith pointed out that the initial signs of chronic doomscrolling and tech neck include ongoing pain that does not improve with rest. Other indicators include an increased dependence on pain relief and adjustments to daily routines due to discomfort. He advised individuals to reconsider their device usage and posture habits when these symptoms arise.

Strategies for Managing and Preventing Tech Neck

To combat the growing concerns surrounding tech neck, Monteith, with Dr. Ramos’s endorsement, shared several strategies aimed at reducing the risk of this condition and enhancing overall brain health.

Establishing Boundaries Between Work and Leisure

Monteith’s first recommendation is to differentiate between work-related and leisure device usage. “Complete your work tasks before indulging in scrolling. Consider reading a book or stretching before picking up your phone,” he suggested.

Dr. Ramos elaborated on this advice, stating, “Taking breaks to stretch or read activates the parasympathetic nervous system, allowing the brain to reset from overstimulation. This brief pause can alleviate mental fatigue, enhance focus, and improve emotional regulation, making you more resilient to stress and distractions when you return to your devices.”

Moderating Screen Time in Bed

The second piece of advice focuses on limiting screen time while in bed. “Implement a ‘scroll timer’—set a 20 to 30-minute limit for device use in bed,” Monteith recommended. Dr. Ramos added, “Restricting tech use before sleep helps maintain your circadian rhythm by minimizing blue light exposure, which is vital for melatonin production and restorative sleep. Quality sleep is crucial for memory consolidation, emotional processing, and neural repair, keeping your brain sharp and balanced.”

Prioritizing Proper Posture

The third recommendation emphasizes adjusting posture before engaging with devices. “Remember to align your chin and shoulders correctly before you start scrolling,” Monteith advised. Dr. Ramos explained, “Maintaining good posture reduces the stress signals sent to the brain from strained muscles, particularly in the neck and shoulders. Proper alignment enhances blood flow and oxygen delivery to the brain, promoting cognitive clarity and emotional stability.”

Conclusion: The Need for Mindful Tech Use

The rise in complaints related to tech neck and associated health issues underscores a broader trend regarding the impact of technology on physical and mental well-being among Australians. Both experts highlighted the importance of early intervention, practical prevention strategies, and mindful technology use to mitigate the health risks associated with evolving device habits.

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