The ubiquitous use of smartphones in modern life has brought with it a number of physical health risks, which often go unnoticed.

Prolonged screen time can lead to a variety of injuries and disorders, affecting everything from the muscles to the mental well-being of users.

Here we highlight five common injuries resulting from excessive mobile phone use and offer practical advice on how to prevent them.

Five common injuries caused by excessive mobile phone use

1.Thumb syndrome:
The repetitive act of texting or swiping the mobile phone screen can trigger Texting Thumb Syndrome, characterised by pain and inflammation of the tendons in the thumb and wrist. To prevent this condition, it is crucial to take regular breaks during mobile phone use and to practice stretching exercises for the hands and fingers.

2. Text neck:
Keeping the head tilted forward for prolonged periods of time while looking at a mobile phone can lead to the development of "text neck", putting pressure on the spine and neck muscles. Maintaining an upright posture while using the device, as well as taking frequent breaks and performing stretching exercises for the neck and shoulders, can help prevent this injury.

3. Eye strain:
Prolonged exposure to the blue light emitted by digital screens can cause eye fatigue, dryness, blurred vision and even headaches. Adjusting screen brightness to a comfortable level, taking short breaks to rest your eyes every 20 minutes and wearing blue light filters or glasses with lenses that block blue light are effective strategies to reduce this condition.

4. Rotator cuff tendinitis:
Holding the phone with the arm outstretched while navigating the screen can strain the muscles and tendons that stabilise the shoulder, causing pain and inflammation. Alternating arms when holding the phone, avoiding holding the arm in a static position for too long, and practising strengthening and stretching exercises for the shoulder and upper body muscles are key preventive measures.

5. Mobile phone addiction:
Although not a physical injury in the traditional sense, mobile phone addiction is a growing problem that affects mental and emotional health. Setting healthy limits on screen time, prioritising in-person interactions and dedicating time to off-cell phone activities are effective ways to prevent this addiction and restore balance to digital life.

SHOTLIST
1. Various mobile phone use in cities around the world (Buenos Aires -Apr 30, 2024-, New Delhi -Dec 5, 2023-, Istanbul -May 18, 2023-, Mexico City -Nov 4, 2023-).