“Text Neck Syndrome”: A Growing Health Concern for Children and Teens

Recent medical studies recommend avoiding poor posture while using smartphones and tablets, warning against what is now known as “Text Neck Syndrome.” Research shows that up to 80% of spinal deformities in children may result from prolonged poor posture in front of screens, alongside congenital defects or neurological disorders.

Dr. Shadi Abdel Ghafar, orthopedic surgery consultant, stresses the importance of sitting correctly, warning that bending the neck for long periods can lead to chronic pain and long-term health risks.

What Is “Text Neck Syndrome”?

Often called a modern-day disease, Text Neck Syndrome occurs due to excessive use of smartphones and tablets, which causes the head and neck to tilt forward for long periods.

Symptoms include:

Neck and upper back pain
Shoulder stiffness
Muscle fatigue
Headaches
In severe cases: early disc degeneration, nerve compression, or muscle spasms

Symptoms in Children

Neck and shoulder pain or stiffness
Recurring headaches
Numbness or tingling in the arms due to nerve pressure
Muscle spasms in the neck
A habitual forward head posture

Causes of Text Neck

Prolonged hours checking emails, reading news, texting, or browsing online in unnatural postures
Excessive screen time among children and teenagers, whose spines are still flexible and vulnerable
Even adults and seniors are at risk, especially when reading e-newspapers for extended periods

When the neck bends forward:

At 15° tilt, the spine bears ~13 kg of force
At 60° tilt, the spine bears ~27 kg—equivalent to the weight of a 7-year-old child

Repeated daily, this leads to muscle imbalance, spinal pressure, chronic pain, and even spinal deformities like kyphosis (hunchback).

Prevention and Treatment

Limit Device Use
Encourage children to reduce screen time.
Correct Posture
Raise screens to eye level to avoid neck bending.
Exercise Regularly
- Stretching and strengthening neck muscles
- Swimming (front crawl is recommended over breaststroke to protect the spine)
- Looking at the horizon often to relax neck and eye muscles
Medical Consultation
If severe pain, fever, or neurological symptoms appear, seek medical advice immediately.

When Surgery Is Needed

Surgical intervention is only considered when spinal curvature exceeds 40° and usually postponed until after puberty to avoid affecting growth.

Mild cases: Medical braces can slow progression but won’t cure it completely.
Severe cases: Surgery may be done either with a traditional open approach or minimally invasive endoscopy.
Safety rates: Over 99% with modern nerve-monitoring equipment.
Recovery: Patients typically return to normal activities within weeks.