Physiotherapists in Ludhiana are sounding the alarm over a sharp and worrying rise in patients suffering from severe neck and spinal problems. Specialists are directly linking this surge to the city's prolonged mobile phone and screen usage habits, a modern-day health crisis affecting alarmingly young adults.
Soaring Cases Signal a Public Health Concern
Hospital data paints a stark picture of this growing epidemic. At the Christian Medical College and Hospital (CMCH), the physiotherapy department recorded 75 cases of posture-related neck problems in just one month - October 2025. Assistant professor of physiotherapy, Osheen Bhandari, revealed that out of roughly 546 neck posture-related patients seen this year, a majority are connected to high screen time. She confirmed that these numbers are significantly higher than in previous years.
The trend is mirrored across other major hospitals. At Dayanand Medical College and Hospital (DMCH), associate professor Amarjot Singh reported treating about 40 neck-related cases per month due to mobile and tablet overuse. This figure is roughly double what was seen in the pre-COVID era. Similarly, Taranpreet Thind, head of physiotherapy at the civil hospital, confirmed seeing around 40 cases monthly, up from just 20 five years ago.
A Dramatic Shift in Patient Demographics
Perhaps the most shocking aspect of this trend is the drastic drop in the average age of patients. Degenerative spine issues, once primarily seen in people over 50, are now routinely diagnosed in the 25-to-30 age group. Experts attribute this precipitous shift to the advent of social media and a deep-seated dependency on screens for both work and leisure.
"The average age for posture-related issues has plummeted," stated Taranpreet Thind, highlighting the core of the crisis. The constant forward tilt of the head while using devices is taking a severe toll on young cervical spines.
Symptoms, Risks, and the Path to Prevention
Medical experts warn that what starts as simple screen-induced neck pain can escalate into debilitating conditions if left untreated. Key symptoms include:
- Stiffness and restricted neck movement
- Increased pain in the neck and shoulder region
- Headaches, dizziness, and nausea in severe cases
- Pain radiating to the back and arms
- Tingling, numbness, or weakness in the arms and fingers
Orthopaedic physiotherapist Sukham Ahluwalia Gill explained the mechanics: tilting the neck forward for long periods places an immense load on the cervical spine. This extra compression can narrow cervical spaces, irritating nerves and causing the alarming symptoms listed above.
Physiotherapists stress the importance of early intervention. "Patients should not ignore symptoms such as restriction of neck movements, pain radiating to the arms, and reduced grip strength," advised Taranpreet Thind. Early consultation not only helps cure symptoms but also teaches crucial posture correction techniques and ergonomic care.
The consensus from Ludhiana's medical community is clear: the 'tech neck' epidemic is real, it is affecting the young, and it demands immediate attention through public awareness and proactive health measures.
