The effect of smartphone usage time on posture and respiratory function.

Area of Science:

• Physiotherapy
• Respiratory Medicine
• Ergonomics

Background:

• Smartphone usage is prevalent globally.
• Concerns exist regarding the potential health impacts of prolonged screen time on posture and respiratory health.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the relationship between smartphone usage duration and changes in postural alignment.
• To assess the impact of smartphone usage duration on key respiratory function parameters.

Main Methods:

• Participants were divided into two groups based on daily smartphone usage (<4 hours vs. >4 hours).
• Postural assessment included measuring the craniovertebral angle and calculating scapular indices.
• Respiratory function was evaluated using spirometry (forced vital capacity, forced expiratory volume in 1 second, FEV1/FVC ratio) and peak expiratory flow measurements.

Main Results:

• Significant differences were observed in the craniovertebral angle between groups, indicating poorer neck posture with longer smartphone use.
• Scapular indices also showed significant variations, suggesting altered shoulder blade positioning.
• Peak expiratory flow rates were significantly reduced in the group with higher smartphone usage.

Conclusions:

• Prolonged smartphone usage is associated with detrimental changes in posture, specifically affecting the craniovertebral angle and scapular alignment.
• Extended smartphone use can negatively impact respiratory function, as evidenced by reduced peak expiratory flow.
• These findings highlight the importance of mindful smartphone usage to mitigate adverse effects on musculoskeletal and respiratory health.