Text Neck: The Hidden Cost of Screen Time

In a conversation with The Daily Tribune, physiotherapist Menatalla Hilal said around 40 per cent of patients visiting her clinic show symptoms that are at least partly linked to the condition, which results from prolonged forward head posture while using electronic devices.

She added that the number of text neck-related cases she sees in her practice has almost doubled compared with the period before the COVID-19 pandemic, reflecting the sharp rise in daily screen use.

Her observations mirror global findings. A  2025 systematic review published in BMC Public Health, which analysed 25 studies involving more than 43,000 participants, found that spending more than six hours a day in sedentary activities was associated with an almost 88 per cent higher risk of neck pain, with mobile phone use posing the greatest risk among screen-based activities.

"While technology has made life easier, the amount of time people spend looking at screens has resulted in more neck and posture problems," she said. "The pain can extend beyond the neck to the shoulder blade (scapula) and even the arm."

Hilal said the main concern is not the number of hours spent on devices, but remaining in the same position for too long.

"There isn't a specific number of hours after which screen use becomes harmful. The real problem comes from maintaining poor posture repeatedly over months and years. People should avoid staying in the same position for more than 30 minutes and should regularly move their joints and change their posture."

Cause: Prolonged device use with poor posture.

Symptoms: Neck, shoulder and arm pain.

Most at risk: Heavy screen users, especially children and teens.

Prevention: Move and stretch every 30 minutes.

Risk: Can lead to long-term neck and spine problems if ignored.

The hidden strain

Looking down at a phone places significant stress on the cervical spine because the body is not designed to remain in that position for long periods, Hilal explained.

"Keeping the neck bent forward puts excessive pressure on the cervical discs and muscles, which can eventually lead to muscle strain, inflammation or even cervical disc problems."

Children and teenagers are particularly vulnerable because they often spend longer periods using digital devices while their bodies are still developing, she said.

Fix it early

Hilal advised people not to ignore persistent neck pain, discomfort that spreads to the arm or shoulder blade, tenderness in the neck or middle back, or pain that occurs during simple daily activities.

If left untreated, text neck may contribute to cervical disc issues, changes in spinal alignment and inflammation of the supporting ligaments, she pointed out.

According to Hilal, posture correction combined with regular movement and appropriate neck exercises can significantly improve symptoms and prevent the condition from worsening. She recommended gentle neck stretches, nerve gliding exercises and neck tilt exercises.

She added that standing desks and ergonomic equipment can help, but they should be used alongside regular movement and proper posture rather than as a standalone solution.

Healthy screen habits

Hilal said parents play an important role in encouraging healthier screen habits by setting a good example.

"When children see their parents maintaining good posture and taking care of their health, they are more likely to follow the same habits," she said.

She also encouraged families to use educational videos and articles to help children understand the importance of posture and movement.