The consequences of excessive phone and tablet use

The modern technology has become indispensable in our daily lives; however, the continuous use of mobile devices can lead to numerous health issues. Smartphones and tablets provide convenient access to information and entertainment, but we often neglect our posture while using them. Incorrect postures adopted while looking at devices can have serious consequences for spinal and eye health.

Many people do not even realize the extent to which mobile phone usage affects our bodies. Excessive mobile use can cause not only neck and spine complaints but also jeopardize our eye health. Research shows that during the use of mobile devices, our bodies tend to assume positions that are not natural, and this can lead to serious problems in the long run.

The proliferation of mobile phones and their continuous use necessitates that we consciously pay attention to our posture and the protection of our eyes. The aim of this article is to raise awareness about the importance of proper posture and how we can protect ourselves from the negative effects of mobile usage.

The Consequences of Incorrect Posture

While using mobile devices, many do not pay attention to the posture they adopt. Bowing the neck and tensing the shoulders is a common phenomenon, especially when spending long periods on calls or browsing the internet. Due to the constant maintenance of forced postures, the muscles of the spine and neck become tense, causing pain and discomfort. Our bodies are not designed to remain in one position for extended periods, so incorrect posture negatively affects not only the neck but also the lower back.

The consequences of using mobile devices in incorrect positions can include chronic pain, wear and tear of the vertebrae, and spinal deformities. Research indicates that leaning the head forward dramatically increases the load on the cervical spine. For example, if someone leans forward at a 60-degree angle, the force acting on the spine can increase to as much as 27 kilograms. This excessive pressure can lead to severe consequences over time, potentially requiring surgical intervention.

Doctors emphasize that movement and changing body positions are crucial in avoiding problems. It is recommended to take regular breaks, perform various stretching exercises, and also allocate time for massages. Prevention is always easier than treating already developed problems, so it is important to consciously pay attention to our bodies and maintain proper posture.

Preserving Eye Health

The use of mobile devices has serious effects not only on our spines but also on our eyes. Prolonged staring at screens causes tension in the eye muscles, which can lead to increased fatigue. Doctors warn that while using mobile phones, tablets, or computers, we tend to blink less, which can lead to a decrease in the moisture content of the eyes. Blinking plays an important role in protecting and hydrating the eyes, so a lack of it can lead to various problems.

Ophthalmologists emphasize the importance of taking breaks from screen time and looking into the distance to allow the eye muscles to relax. Green environments and the colors and shapes of nature have beneficial effects on our eyes, so it is worthwhile to spend time outdoors. Natural light and distant viewing help relax the eyes, while the digital world continuously stimulates them.

Ensuring proper lighting and optimizing screen brightness can also contribute to preserving eye health. Doctors recommend following the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look away at something 20 feet (about 6 meters) away for at least 20 seconds. This practice helps reduce eye fatigue and maintains proper visual acuity.

As mobile devices become more widespread, it is important to consciously pay attention to our health and take preventive measures. Proper posture and eye protection are key to maintaining long-term health.