Phone use linked to neck, eye and hand strain

Health experts cite the physical toll of constant smartphone and screen use. Repeated forward‑head posture can place up to 27 kg of force on the cervical spine, a condition known as “tech neck,” leading to neck pain, shoulder tension and reduced mobility. Prolonged screen time also contributes to digital eye strain—dryness, blurred vision and headaches—especially when users stay indoors and lack natural light exposure. Repetitive hand placement on devices may cause localized skin irritation and reduced grip strength. The BBC analysis recommends keeping devices at eye level, taking regular short breaks, using proper lighting, and limiting continuous screen periods to mitigate these effects.