'Tech Neck’ Bringing You Down?

If you're one of the 1 in 5 Australians experiencing neck pain, you're not alone—and you're definitely in the right place. With increasing reliance on technology across all age groups, we’re seeing a noticeable rise in neck-related issues, particularly tension neck syndrome, commonly known as ‘tech neck’.

This Spinal Health Week (26 May – 1 June 2025), we at Lane Cove Chiropractic invite our patients and community to Consult a Chiro and get the heads up on tech neck. With thousands of Australians spending more time than ever on screens, the risk of developing tech neck is growing fast.

Everyday habits such as leaning forward to read from your mobile, working on poorly set-up desktops, or sitting without proper posture for long hours are all contributors. In fact, a recent 2025 Journal of Clinical Medicine study shows that just a 15° forward tilt of the head adds up to 12kg of extra pressure on the neck and spine. That adds up quickly, especially when screen time dominates your day!

What Is ‘Tech Neck’?

‘Tech neck’ is caused by repetitive strain from looking down at phones, tablets, and laptops—often for long periods and without proper ergonomic support. This can lead to:

• Muscle strain

• Poor posture

• Headaches

• Reduced range of motion

• Long-term spinal issues

How Chiropractic Care Can Help

Here at Lane Cove Chiropractic, we take tech neck seriously. Chiropractic care offers a low-risk, natural and effective way to manage tech neck and its related symptoms. With decades of experience in treating spinal and nervous system issues, our team understands how to get to the root of the problem—not just treat the symptoms.

Whether you're experiencing discomfort or just want to improve your posture and prevent future issues, we’re here to help.

Simple Tips to Avoid Tech Neck

Prevention is key. These small changes can make a big difference in reducing your risk of tech neck:

• Limit leisure mobile phone and device use

• Maintain neck flexion of less than 15° when using phones or tablets

• Ensure laptops and computers are set up ergonomically

• Raise screens to eye level to reduce downward gaze

• Sit with back support, feet flat on the floor, and a straight spine

• Use both hands and index fingers when typing messages to reduce muscle strain

Making these habits part of your daily routine can significantly improve your spinal health and comfort.

Get the Heads Up on Tech Neck

Don’t wait for pain to become your norm. Access FREE resources from the Australian Chiropractors Association, including:

• Avoiding Tech Neck factsheets (Adults, Parents, Students)

• Ergonomic Checklist

• Mobile Device Use Checklist

• Stand Corrected Stretching Poster

  ...and more!

  
  

Visit spinalhealthweek.org.au for tools and tips to protect your spine for life.

Let’s tackle tech neck—together.

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Dr Mark has a special interest in helping recreational athletes of all ages perform better and prevent injury. Correct breathing and postural alignment are critical for top performance and injury prevention and is an integral part of “The Over 40 Athlete System” that Mark has developed.

Dr Julie has a special interest in helping mothers and “mothers to be”. Her Post Graduate qualifications in Paediatric Chiropractic and as an ex-midwife give her a unique ability to help pregnant women, new mums and their young children.

Yours in Health,

Dr's Mark & Julie