Smartphone Use Linked to Widespread Neck, Wrist and Eye Strain

Frequent smartphone use has become a daily habit, with the Journal of Clinical Medicine reporting that over 7 billion people—about 90 % of the world’s population—use a mobile phone. In the United States, usage reaches 97 % among 18‑29‑year‑olds.

Health researchers note that prolonged screen time affects attention, sleep and mental health, and also places physical strain on the body. Repetitive bending to look at screens contributes to “tech neck,” causing neck, shoulder and upper‑back pain, while sustained hand positions lead to wrist discomfort. Eye fatigue is also common.

DataReportal’s Digital 2025 report shows U.S. users spend an average of 44 hours per month on TikTok, opening the app about nine times a day, and overall spend roughly four hours daily on their phones. About eight in ten people aged 18‑44 keep their device almost constantly, and estimates suggest up to 3.5 billion users exhibit signs of problematic or addictive smartphone use.