“Text Neck”: The Modern Posture Problem We Need to Talk About
In today’s digital world, many people in Ashgrove, Samford, and Moorooka spend hours looking down at phones, laptops, or tablets — whether for work, social connection, or entertainment. While technology has improved our lives in countless ways, it’s also given rise to a very modern health issue: “Text Neck” or also known as “Tech Neck”.
You might shrug off a stiff neck or shoulder ache after a long day on your device, but over time, these seemingly minor discomforts can evolve into chronic pain, poor posture, and even nerve issues. Fortunately, this condition is highly treatable with professional help from a qualified Physiotherapist.
What Is “Text Neck”?
“Text Neck” refers to the repetitive strain and postural stress placed on the neck and upper back due to sustained forward head posture while using electronic devices.
However, it’s not just screens that cause it.
Other activities like reading, sewing, knitting, and even writing can contribute to similar postural strain. It’s the prolonged downward position, not just the device, that leads to symptoms.
This forward head posture increases the load on the cervical spine and muscles, potentially causing:
- Overworked neck and upper back muscles
- Compressed discs and joints
- Decreased spinal mobility
- Headaches and jaw pain
- Stiffness in nearby joints (shoulders, lower back)
- Long-term postural changes and spinal alignment issues
Common Symptoms of Text Neck
If you live in Ashgrove, Samford, or Moorooka and suffer from:
- Persistent neck pain or tightness
- Shoulder tension (especially in the upper traps)
- Headaches (base of the skull or behind the eyes)
- Upper back pain and stiffness
- Reduced neck mobility
- Numbness or tingling in the arms
- A constant feeling of slouching or imbalance
…you may be experiencing Text Neck, and seeing a qualified Physio could be the most effective next step.
How Physiotherapy Helps
The great news is that Text Neck is highly treatable with early and targeted intervention. At Inline Physio, we support patients from Ashgrove, Samford, and Moorooka with a comprehensive and individualised approach.
1. Thorough Assessment
Your Inline Physiotherapist will assess:
- Daily habits (screen time, work, sleep posture)
- Postural alignment and movement patterns
- Muscular imbalances and strength
- Ergonomic setup and daily demands
2. Manual Therapy
To reduce pain and tension, we may use:
- Soft tissue massage and myofascial release
- Cervical and thoracic joint mobilisation
- Gentle nerve glides and stretches
3. Targeted Exercise Prescription
We’ll design a plan to improve posture and reduce recurrence, focusing on:
- Deep neck flexor training
- Scapular (shoulder blade) strengthening
- Thoracic mobility work
- Postural control and awareness exercises
4. Ergonomic & Posture Coaching
Whether you’re at home or the office in Ashgrove, Samford, or Moorooka, we’ll help you improve:
- Laptop and phone positioning
- Sitting/standing desk habits
- Sleep posture and pillow support
5. Education & Empowerment
Understanding the why behind your pain helps ensure long-term success. Our goal is to equip you with the tools and awareness to avoid posture-related issues in the future.
Quick At-Home Tips to Prevent Text Neck
✅ Bring screens to eye level
✅ Take micro-breaks every 30–45 minutes
✅ Stretch your neck, chest, and shoulders regularly
✅ Perform posture-awareness exercises daily
When to See a Physiotherapist
If you’re in Ashgrove, Samford, or Moorooka, consider booking with a Physio if:
- Neck pain or stiffness has lasted over a week
- You’re experiencing frequent headaches
- You’ve noticed worsening posture
- You feel numbness or tingling in the arms or hands
The Bottom Line
Text Neck is a modern-day problem but with the right combination of education, manual therapy, corrective exercise, and lifestyle changes, you can recover and maintain better posture for life.
See a Physiotherapist
If you’re experiencing symptoms of Text Neck or want a posture assessment, please seek the help of one of our experienced Physiotherapists at Inline Physio Ashgrove, Samford, or Moorooka.
👉 BOOK ONLINE or contact your nearest Inline Physio clinic today and take the first step toward a stronger, healthier posture with a trusted local Physio.