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

Mumbai: A large number of youngsters are heavily using computers and mobile phones for gaming. Sitting in one place for hours on mobile is affecting the eyes and brain. Apart from this, the problem of back, shoulder, and spine pain (cervical spine) is also surging among youngsters. Office workers youngsters account for 60 % of outpatients having joint pain. As they have to use computers and mobile phones for hours and end up with joint pain.

According to experts, about 10 million people in India suffer from cervical spondylosis every year. The incidence of neck pain in adults is 25-50% annually. 75% of people over the age of 50 have spinal canal problems. Currently, the problem of cervical spine and joint pain is increasing among the youth. Excessive use of laptops, smartphones, a sedentary lifestyle, and poor body posture are the main reasons behind this. This habit of eating while listening to songs or playing games 24/7 is very dangerous among children of young age. This can cause pain in the fingers, hands, back, and neck by sitting in the wrong position and using the mobile phone. If it is not stopped in time, it can lead to more serious problems in the future.

Dr Dhananjay Parab,  Orthopaedic and Knee Transplant Surgeon at Zynova Shalby Hospital said, “Excessive use of anything is harmful to health. Too much usage of computers, phones can cause numbness and pain in the wrist. This puts a strain on the hands. Excessive use of mobiles keeps the neck in a downward position, which can lead to neck and spine problems. Also, excessive use of mobile phones can cause shoulder and back pain. 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. Apart from this, currently, children under 20 years of age have also started coming for treatment. Apart from this, many people are suffering from joint pain due to office work. It is very important to get diagnosed on time. Because the surgical procedure is the only option if joint pain worsens.”

Dr Yajuvendra Gavai, Specialist in Sports Medicine and Arthroscopy Surgeon, Nexus Day Surgery Centre said, “Sports injuries are more likely to cause excruciating pain and swelling in the shoulder. Shoulder pain can also be exacerbated due to a prior injury. Medical tests such as X-rays, CT scans, MRIs, or electromyography (EMG) are done to find out what is causing the shoulder pain. Timely diagnosis and treatment are necessary to prevent the serious condition from increasing shoulder pain.”

Dr Utkarsh Pawar, Shoulder and Knee Surgeon, Apollo Spectra Hospital, Mumbai said, “Excessive use of mobile phones or computers can lead to back and spine pain. This condition often causes joint stiffness and pain. If not treated in time, one can suffer from osteoarthritis which leads to the wear and tear of the spine. Regular exercise is essential to prevent back, shoulder, and spine pain. Stretching exercises, cold compress, and corticosteroid injections may be given to reduce inflammation and relieve pain. But, if the pain becomes unbearable, it is necessary to consult a doctor immediately.