Abstract
Background: Rapid developments in technology demand the use of various electronic devices in daily life. Adolescents and younger adults are reported to consume more technology compared to other age groups. Examining the health implications of device use may assist with population level prevention and wellness strategies and stakeholder education.
Objective: To systematically examine the literature regarding the effects of electronic device usage on the musculoskeletal system in adolescents and young adults.
Method: Four electronic databases (OVID Medline, PubMed, EBSCOhost, and Scopus) were searched for peer-reviewed articles published in English between 2011 and 2021. All selected articles were critically appraised and examined for risk of bias. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines were used to report data.
Result: Sixteen articles met the inclusion criteria. The evidence synthesis revealed an association between electronic device use and musculoskeletal impairments.
Notably, excessive use and non-neutral postures during the use contributed to musculoskeletal discomfort and disorders. Neck, upper and lower back, and upper extremities were the most affected body regions.
Conclusion: Prolonged use of electronic devices and maladaptive postures while using may contribute to musculoskeletal impairments in adolescents and young
adults.
Objective: To systematically examine the literature regarding the effects of electronic device usage on the musculoskeletal system in adolescents and young adults.
Method: Four electronic databases (OVID Medline, PubMed, EBSCOhost, and Scopus) were searched for peer-reviewed articles published in English between 2011 and 2021. All selected articles were critically appraised and examined for risk of bias. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines were used to report data.
Result: Sixteen articles met the inclusion criteria. The evidence synthesis revealed an association between electronic device use and musculoskeletal impairments.
Notably, excessive use and non-neutral postures during the use contributed to musculoskeletal discomfort and disorders. Neck, upper and lower back, and upper extremities were the most affected body regions.
Conclusion: Prolonged use of electronic devices and maladaptive postures while using may contribute to musculoskeletal impairments in adolescents and young
adults.
| Original language | English (US) |
|---|---|
| Article number | 114 |
| Number of pages | 25 |
| Journal | Journal of Musculoskeletal Disorders and Treatment |
| Volume | 8 |
| Issue number | 2 |
| State | Published - Jun 30 2022 |