Smartphones Linked to Faster Aging, Study Reveals

A recent study has revealed that extended smartphone usage can lead to musculoskeletal pain, affecting the neck, shoulder, elbow, and hands, a common complaint associated with aging.

The research, conducted by researchers from Bangladesh and India, found that 69.2 per cent of students aged between 18 and 30 were moderately to severely addicted to their smartphones. The study, published in Springer Nature in 2022, assessed the impact of smartphone addiction on musculoskeletal pain among college-going students.

Researchers analyzed data from 326 students using various tools such as the smartphone addiction scale-short form (SAS-SF), the Neck Disability Index, the Shoulder Pain and Disability Index (SPADI), the Oxford Elbow Scores (OES), and the Cornell Hand Discomfort Questionnaire (CHDQ). The results showed that while 43.3 per cent of students reported neck pain and 42.9 per cent experienced shoulder pain, 27.9 per cent complained of elbow pain.

According to experts, poor posture is a key factor in causing pain caused by smartphone usage, as it strains the cervical spine and leads to chronic neck pain. Continuous muscle contraction while using the phone, repetitive thumb movements, and wrist flexion also contribute to pain and injuries.

The study's findings suggest that long-term neglect of musculoskeletal issues can lead to chronic problems, impacting an individual's overall quality of life. "We warn that if ignored, these musculoskeletal issues can turn chronic," said researchers. To prevent such damage, it is essential to have better ergonomic awareness and frequent breaks during smartphone usage.

Tips for Smartphone Users

While the research is dated, its findings are still relevant considering the rising instances of smartphone addiction, experts say. Here are some practical tips for users:

• Maintain good posture while using your smartphone.
• Keep a check on extended usage to prevent strain on muscles.
• Follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look away from the screen and focus on something 20 feet away for 20 seconds.

By adopting these simple precautions, users can reduce their risk of developing musculoskeletal pain associated with smartphone usage. Experts recommend striking a balance between responsible usage and taking breaks to prevent long-term damage.