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In today’s fast-paced world, we’re all surrounded by digital devices that make our work easier. However, little did we know that it is not only affecting our mental health but is also having a serious impact on our physical health. There are times when prolonged sitting and long hours of screen time lead to back pain, and it can further increase the risk of spine disorders. Hence, it is essential for all of us to stay cautious and take measures to keep our spine health in check. On this spine day, we got in touch with Dr Ishant Rege, Consultant Brain and Spine Surgeon, Comprehensive Stroke and Endovascular Neurosurgeon, DPU Super Specialty Hospital, Pimpri, Pune and Dr Shrikant Dalal, Robotic, Endoscopic, and Minimally Invasive Spine Surgeon at Ruby Hall Clinic Pune who shares everyday factors contributing to sedentary behaviour among the youth that may lead to disorders in the spine.

Dr Ishant explains that sitting for too long or spending too much time on digital devices are unhealthy lifestyle choices affecting spine health, especially in children more than anyone else. “Slouching of the back on a sitting position can lead to spine dislocation, muscle contraction and stress on vertebral discs and predisposes to lower backaches and gradual deterioration of the spine. Sitting for too long also reduces activation levels of core muscles which reduce their capacity to support the spine axis leading to more stress in the spinal structures,” he said.

Similarly, due to too much time on electronic devices, the neck is brought forward to extreme levels which induces cervical spine pain known as text neck for prolonged periods, Dr Ishant further shares.

Dr Ishant explains that to combat spine-related problems, people, especially young people, need to follow healthy and active lifestyles that should not involve prolonged mechanical loading of the spine. “Activities such as slouching, too much of the screen at the wrong angles, or stressing the spine with heavy weights can be detrimental to the spine. It is important that regular movement, stretching exercises and working in correct postures and workstations is maintained. People need to refrain from wild slumping over the sofa and using phones or laptops when lying on the couch or bed,” Dr Ishant said.

“Physical activities such as walking, swimming, yoga should be promoted because they can strengthen the support muscles around the spine to neutralize the risks arising from a sedentary lifestyle,” he further explained.

Dr Shrikant Dalal, a Robotic, Endoscopic, and Minimally Invasive Spine Surgeon at Ruby Hall Clinic Pune explains how spine health is getting affected due to modern lifestyle.

Prolonged sitting can lead to poor posture which may result in spinal misalignments, which may lead to kyphosis and lordosis.

Muscle Weakness

Sedentary lifestyles can contribute to instability and pain, leading to weaker core and back muscles.

Sitting in one place or being inactive for long can cause severe chronic back pain.

Encouraging Regular Physical Activity

Though our life revolves around digital devices that lead to an unhealthy lifestyle, there are certain simple lifestyle changes we can take to help alleviate the risk of spine disorders.

Exercise Daily: Playing any sports, walking, or stretching exercises can help alleviate back pain.

Ergonomic Practices: Try to set up proper workstations for students to maintain their posture. Also, encourage them to go out and play instead of sitting in and playing video games.

Educate Kids On Spinal Health: Educate them to maintain good posture while sitting and standing and why is it important. Further, explain to them the risks of prolonged sitting. This will encourage them to move after a specific period of time.

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