Action Physiotherapy Weighs in on Study Suggesting Wireless Devices Cause Back and Neck Pain
Action Physiotherapy addresses a study finding that the majority of children suffer from back or neck pain due to using digital devices.
Brampton, Canada – November 24, 2015 /MarketersMedia/ —
Action Physiotherapy (www.ActionPhysiotherapy.com), a leading provider of effective physiotherapy serving the Brampton area for over 20 years, is weighing in on a study that suggests that the use of digital devices may be causing back and neck pain.
A study of over 200 primary school children found that more than two thirds had suffered from back or neck pain in the previous year. Excessive use of digital devices—such as smartphones, tablets, and computers—are thought to be the main contributing factors. (Source: Morton, K., “Concerns raised over impact of tablets on posture,” Nursery World, December 2, 2013, http://www.nurseryworld.co.uk/nursery-world/news/1140830/concerns-raised-impact-tablets-posture.)
“Smartphone overuse is a serious problem when it comes to posture and chronic pain,” says
Robert Kappes, M. Sc. (PT), Registered Physiotherapist at Action Physiotherapy. “Excessive use of these devices forces people to remain in positions that can lead to pain and other health problems. However, children typically do not develop back pain, so if the majority of them are developing back and neck issues, that’s a very bad sign.”
The researchers behind the study have warned that the problem is a ticking time bomb and that the overuse of digital devices could lead to long-lasting health problems for children later in life.
“With back or neck pain, it’s always easier to prevent it from occurring in the first place than it is to correct it,” says Kappes. “For children, this could predispose them to developing worse back problems as adults.”
Several nursery schools are already implementing changes to help children improve their posture while using mobile devices. One technique is the use of special cushions that help keep children’s backs aligned properly.
“What you want to avoid is the ‘C’-shape posture that you get when you’re hunched over your computer or looking down at a phone,” notes Kappes. “You should try to keep your posture in an ‘S’-shape. This is a more natural resting state for your spine and will help prevent pain from developing.”
Moving around is also important for improving posture. When children sit staring at wireless devices for prolonged periods, their posture suffers. However, there are ways in which schools can adopt modern technology and still ensure the physical well-being of students.
“We already know that sitting for too long has negative health effects, but some people don’t realize it also affects your posture. It’s important to keep active. If children are sitting, have them get up and walk around for a little bit. You want to mix up sitting with breaks of activity,” advises Kappes. “In our practice, we also recommend certain stretches and exercises to help with posture and also to prevent injuries from occurring. There are a lot of simple exercises you can do quickly at home to help improve your posture.”
While more action will need to be taken in schools and daycares to help keep children from developing back or neck problems, Kappes warns that the risks of overusing digital devices apply to adults just as much as they do to children.
“This isn’t only affecting children,” says Kappes. “A lot of us are overusing our smart phones, and that’s contributing to issues like chronic back pain. For people who suffer from back pain, reducing time on digital devices along with exploring other treatment options is crucial.”
Action Physiotherapy is a top provider of physiotherapy in Brampton, offering effective pain relief using a patient-focused approach. To find out more, visit www.ActionPhysiotherapy.com.
For more information about us, please visit http://www.actionphysiotherapy.com/
Contact Info:
Name: Robert Kappes
Organization: Action Physiotherapy
Address: 332 Main Street North #2 Brampton, ON, L6V 1P8
Phone: 905-457-7475
Release ID: 97473
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