A study published in the journal Healthcare earlier this year in Brazil warns of excessive screen use of more than three hours a day for the spine health of school-age adolescents.
When we use mobile phones, tablets, laptops and even desktop computers, we tend to have bad posture when sitting or lying down.
Staying in these positions, which we think is more comfortable while watching videos or texting, can cause low back pain and even affect performance in school activities.
Considering this relationship, the researchers conducted a survey with 1st and 2nd grade high school students in 2017 and evaluated “mid-back pain” (thoracic back pain), also known as TSP. A reassessment was made in 2018.
A total of 1,628 students aged between 14 and 18 were invited. Of these, 1,393 passed all stages, responding to physical and mental health assessments.
According to the scientists, teenagers who used technological equipment for more than 3 hours a day were more likely to suffer from pain caused by poor posture.
TSP was reported by 38.4% of students in 2017. There was a 10.1% increase in new cases in 2018, with women most affected by the public.
However, back pain is not only caused by prolonged use of mobile phones and tablets. Mental health, backpack weight, furniture ergonomics, among other factors contribute to the initiation of TSP.
Treatable and preventable, the research warns that more activity is needed to combat sedentary lifestyles and screen time.
According to the researchers, this study not only serves as a warning, but also shows that more research is needed in this area to improve students’ quality of life.
Source: Tec Mundo
I’m Blaine Morgan, an experienced journalist and writer with over 8 years of experience in the tech industry. My expertise lies in writing about technology news and trends, covering everything from cutting-edge gadgets to emerging software developments. I’ve written for several leading publications including Gadget Onus where I am an author.
