60% Of Youngsters Suffer From Spine Problems Due To Excessive Usage Of Gadgets

With the ubiquity of technology, an alarming number of young individuals are falling prey to health issues related to prolonged usage of computers and mobile phones. Especially in gaming, youngsters tend to remain stationary for extended periods, which has been linked to eye strain, cognitive stress, and musculoskeletal problems.

According to medical experts, roughly 10 million people in India are affected by cervical spondylosis annually. The statistics also show that adults face a 25-50% annual incidence of neck pain. Furthermore, an astonishing 75% of individuals above the age of 50 experience spinal canal issues. However, there is a surge in cervical and joint pain among the younger population.

Dr. Dhananjay Parab, an Orthopaedic and Knee Transplant Surgeon at Zynova Shalby Hospital, highlights the perils of overusing gadgets. He mentions that excessive gadget usage can cause wrist numbness and pain due to the strain. Also, consistently looking down at phones can lead to neck and spinal issues, along with shoulder and back pain. He states, “Every day 2 to 3 patients come to the outpatient department complaining of joint and finger pain due to the use of mobile phones. These patients are between 20 and 40 years of age.”

On the other hand, Dr. Yajuvendra Gavai, a specialist in Sports Medicine, points out that prior injuries can aggravate shoulder pain, especially in sports. Medical tests like X-rays, CT scans, MRIs, or EMG can help diagnose the cause of this pain. He emphasizes timely diagnosis and treatment.

Dr. Utkarsh Pawar, a Shoulder and Knee Surgeon at Apollo Spectra Hospital, suggests regular exercise as a preventative measure. He says, “Stretching exercises, cold compress, and corticosteroid injections may be given to reduce inflammation and relieve pain.” He also urges individuals to consult a doctor without delay if the pain becomes unbearable.

It is vital to recognize the importance of moderation in technology usage and the necessity to maintain an active lifestyle to avoid these health issues.