Heads down or fixated on the screen, hands on the keyboard, fingers on the keypad, and hunched over posture are what immediately come to mind when we say, “Technology is Deterioriating Your Posture.” But what if we say that you are missing out on the larger picture? Poor posture due to smartphones and laptops isn’t a temporary issue that can be fixed after a massage. It is more of a damage to your health. The Washington Post has mentioned research that says that an average of 2 to 4 hours spent reading emails and others in a hunched-over position is equal to putting stress on the spines for 700 to 1400 hours per year. Your bad posture can lead to back pain, spinal dysfunction, joint degeneration, rounded shoulders, neck pain, and headaches. This blog from Vijayaraj Hospital, home to the Best Ortho Doctor in Madurai, sheds light on how technology can affect your posture and damage your health.
5 Long-Term Health Problems Due to Poor Posture
- Back pain
- Spinal dysfunction
- Joint degeneration
- Rounded Shoulders
- Osteoarthritis
- Back Pain
Looking down at your phone for extended periods strains the muscles and ligaments supporting your spine. This constant stress leads to imbalances and weaknesses, culminating in aches and pains in the upper and lower back. Left unaddressed, it can progress to chronic back pain, significantly impacting your daily activities.
- Spinal Dysfunction
The natural curve of the spine provides optimal support and alignment. Slouching disrupts this delicate balance, causing the vertebrae to misalign. This can compress nerves, leading to pain, numbness, and even tingling in the extremities. In severe cases, it can affect organ function due to improper nerve communication.
- Joint Degeneration
Our joints thrive on proper movement and alignment. Hunched posture puts undue stress on the joints, particularly in the neck, shoulders, and knees. Over time, this repetitive strain leads to the breakdown of cartilage, the protective cushion between bones. This degeneration, known as osteoarthritis, causes pain, stiffness, and limits joint mobility.
- Rounded Shoulders
Continuously hunching over electronic devices weakens the muscles in the back, allowing the shoulders to roll inwards. Rounded shoulders not only affect your posture but also restrict movement and compress the nerves around the shoulder blade. This can lead to pain, weakness, and difficulty performing everyday tasks like reaching overhead.
- Osteoarthritis
As mentioned earlier, poor posture accelerates the degeneration of joints. This wear and tear is the hallmark of osteoarthritis, a chronic condition causing pain, stiffness, and swelling in the affected joints. Technology use, if not coupled with good posture habits, can significantly increase your risk of developing osteoarthritis, impacting your mobility and overall well-being.
Maintaining good posture is not just about aesthetics; it’s the foundation for a healthy spine and joints. By being mindful of your posture while using technology, incorporating regular stretching, and strengthening exercises, you can combat these tech-induced problems. Remember, a good posture goes a long way in saving you from a lifetime of orthopaedic issues. Book an appointment with us and get treated by the Best Ortho Doctor in Madurai. Make a conscious effort to stand tall and protect your health – your body will thank you for it!