Veteran actor Shakeela has shared her harrowing experience of undergoing a ₹3 lakh neck surgery caused by excessive smartphone use and poor posture.

Key Takeaways

  • Actor Shakeela underwent a major neck surgery involving a titanium screw.
  • Prolonged smartphone usage and poor posture were cited as primary causes.
  • Medical experts warn against ignoring symptoms like numbness and radiating pain.

Veteran actor C. Shakeela Begum, popularly known as Shakeela, has opened up about a distressing medical ordeal caused by digital addiction. The 52-year-old actress recently underwent a costly neck surgery, revealing that hours of continuous smartphone use and gaming led to severe cervical spine issues. The procedure, which involved the insertion of a titanium chip screw, cost her approximately ₹3 lakhs.

A Costly Lesson in Digital Habits

In a recent YouTube vlog, Shakeela expressed her regret over her lifestyle choices. "A phone is a useful gadget only when it is used judiciously. I am the prime example of it," she admitted, noting that she would spend hours lying down or tilting her head to play online games. She described the entire ordeal as an "unnecessary expense, pain, and ordeal," urging parents to limit children's screen time.

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Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that the rise of 'Tech Neck' is a growing clinical concern. Dr. Jayesh Bhanushali, a spine surgery consultant at KIMS Hospitals, Thane, explains that the cervical spine is designed with a natural curve. Constantly looking down at a device increases the mechanical strain on neck muscles, joints, and discs, leading to chronic stiffness and fatigue.

Mobile use by itself does not guarantee surgery, but poor posture and prolonged inactivity can significantly aggravate existing spinal conditions.

Warning Signs to Watch For

Medical experts emphasize that users should not rely solely on painkillers. If you experience recurring neck pain, pain radiating into the shoulders or arms, numbness, tingling, or weakness in the hands, immediate medical assessment is required. These could be signs of more serious spinal cord issues.

Did You Know?: Looking down at a smartphone can increase the effective weight on your neck from 12 lbs to as much as 60 lbs!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Does using a phone always lead to surgery?

Not necessarily, but chronic poor posture can cause disc degeneration or herniation, which may eventually require surgical intervention.

2. How can I prevent 'Tech Neck'?

Keep your screen at eye level, avoid using your phone while lying down in a slumped position, and take frequent movement breaks.