Excessive Mobile Gaming Forces 25-Year-Old in Japan to Undergo Emergency Spinal Surgery

A 25-year-old man in Japan has undergone emergency spinal surgery after months of intense smartphone gaming left his neck so weakened that he could no longer lift his head. The case was reported by The Daily Mail on May 14, drawing attention to the physical dangers of prolonged device use.

According to Japanese doctors, the young man's condition was the result of excessive time spent looking down at his phone, particularly while playing mobile games. Over time, this unnatural posture caused his cervical vertebrae to stretch abnormally, eventually creating a visible bulge on his neck.

The man had endured severe neck pain for six months, along with difficulty swallowing that affected his eating habits and led to noticeable weight loss. By the time he sought medical attention, his condition had deteriorated to the point where he could no longer hold up his own head.

Following comprehensive medical evaluations, doctors determined that immediate surgical intervention was necessary. The procedure involved removing damaged vertebrae and scar tissue, then implanting metal rods and screws to stabilize the cervical spine and restore structural support.

This alarming case highlights the importance of maintaining proper posture and taking regular breaks when using digital devices — especially during extended gaming sessions on mobile platforms.