Understanding Mechanical Neck Pain in College Students Due to Smartphone Use: A Narrative Review

The widespread and prolonged use of smartphones among college students has led to a growing prevalence of mechanical neck pain (MNP), a condition primarily driven by sustained poor posture, particularly forward head posture (FHP), and prolonged static neck positioning. As students increasingly rely on mobile devices for academic, social, and recreational activities, the cervical spine is placed under abnormal mechanical loads, resulting in muscular fatigue, restricted mobility, and postural imbalances. This narrative review aims to explore the pathophysiology of smartphone-induced MNP, its behavioral and ergonomic risk factors, and emerging non-invasive strategies for its management.

Among the various conservative treatment approaches, kinesio taping (KT) has gained prominence as a potential adjunct therapy. KT involves the application of elastic therapeutic tape to support muscles and joints, promote circulation, enhance proprioception, and reduce pain without restricting movement. This review synthesizes current evidence regarding the application and effects of KT on neck pain, with particular focus on its relevance to young adult populations affected by smartphone overuse.

While several studies report positive outcomes with KT in managing neck pain, limited research specifically targets its use in smartphone-related MNP among college students. Additionally, standardized protocols for KT application in this context are lacking. Therefore, this review highlights the importance of developing structured pilot trials and randomized controlled studies to validate the efficacy of KT in this subgroup.

By identifying key gaps in the literature and outlining theoretical and clinical frameworks, this paper provides a foundation for future research into conservative, accessible interventions for technology-related musculoskeletal disorders.