Australian clinics warn of sharp rise in ‘tech neck’ cases

Australian clinics are reporting a substantial increase in patients presenting with ‘tech neck’, a condition associated with prolonged mobile device use.

Physiotherapist Adam Monteith, from Evoker, Sydney CBD, has observed a marked rise in cases at his clinic attributed to tech neck and posture-related complaints. “We’re seeing a noticeable rise in patients coming in with neck, shoulder, and upper back pain linked directly to prolonged scrolling in bed,” he explained. “People prop themselves up with the wrong pillows, round their shoulders forward, and hold their phones at awkward angles. Over time, this causes significant strain to the neck, thoracic spine, and wrists.”

Identifying the signs

Monteith explained that the earliest indicators of chronic doomscrolling and tech neck involve persistent pain, particularly when symptoms do not resolve with rest. Additional signs include increased reliance on pain relief or modifications to daily routines as a result of discomfort. He noted that these should prompt individuals to reconsider their device use and posture habits.

Managing and preventing tech neck

To address rising concerns, Monteith, with approval from Dr Ramos, provided a set of recommendations aimed at minimising the risk of tech neck and promoting overall brain health.

Monteith’s first suggestion is to create a separation between work and leisure device use. “Work, then scroll! Read a chapter or stretch before picking up your phone.”

Hit the link below to see this feature piece, with words from our very own Adam Monteith in Sydney CBD:

https://www.nine.com.au/product-reviews/health-fitness/best-shoes-for-plantar-fasciitis-according-to-experts/6a8f0c6e-0edb-4124-859f-4b59a5cad3f5

ADAM MONTEITH | FOUNDER & APA Musculoskeletal Physiotherapist
MHlth Sc (Manip Phty) BPhty BExSc

Connect with Adam Monteith on LinkedIn

After completing a rather unique double degree – a Bachelor of Physiotherapy & Exercise Science in 2003, & a Masters of Manipulative Physiotherapy at the University of Sydney in 2010 (a voluntary, yet brutal, undertaking for a physiotherapist who wants to be better), Adam established Evoker in 2011. A physiotherapy practice with a difference. & that difference, or ‘niche’, was absolute excellence. 100% of the time. Attention to customer service detail, & excellence in physiotherapy.

Adam’s career in physiotherapy began in the ‘elite’ sporting arena at the Brisbane Broncos Rugby League Club. The lessons learned in this ‘sink or swim’, high pressure environment of the 03/04/05 seasons, created a platform for Adam to really excel in this profession. Adam has accepted invitations to look after the physical health of other Physiotherapists, Doctors, Specialists, Surgeons & none other than a former Prime Minister of this country.

Adam Monteith is a highly skilled musculoskeletal physiotherapist. You can be assured that when you see Adam, your complaint will be thoroughly assessed, and he will use the most appropriate and up to date techniques to treat your problem. Adam’s treatment will always be governed by research. He is constantly analysing the results of the most recent clinical trials so that you can receive the most up to date treatment, helping you to get better sooner. Adam only ever uses evidenced based and clinically proven treatment techniques. Adam Monteith is also a member of the Australian Physiotherapy Association.

Adam is very time aware and prides himself on seeing his patients on time. With a greater than 10 year history of treating and servicing the busy professional in Sydney city, he respects your time and does his best not to keep you waiting.

Adam has:
25 years combined study & clinical experience in physiotherapy/physical therapy
Worked in the heart of Sydney city for more than 15 years
Worked with both the elite athlete & ‘weekend warrior’
Had great success in treating:
– Acute sporting injuries
– Overuse running, cycling & swimming injuries
– Post operative shoulders, hips, knees and ankles
– Complex neck & back cases.
– Adam is often called on for 2nd and 3rd opinions in these complex scenarios.

Expect: A good listener, time spent in assessment phase, plenty of ‘hands on’ physio and exercise.