Could Cell Phones Be Altering the Structure of Our Bones?

Imagine if cell phones possessed such immense power that they could actually mutate the shape of our bones. This intriguing subject has garnered significant attention in the media as of late. It all originates from a scientific report indicating that the use of phones and tablets could potentially lead to profound and enduring alterations in our bodies, but not in the way one might expect. Over the past few years, this notion has gained prominence.

David Shahar and Mark Sayers, experts in biomechanics at the University of the Sunshine Coast in Australia, conducted a comprehensive study. Biomechanics, the field they specialize in, examines how mechanical principles manifest in living organisms. This encompasses various aspects, ranging from human locomotion to the intricate wing movements of insects.

In their study, Shahar and Sayers explore the field of osteobiography, which enables researchers to reconstruct individuals' lives based on their skeletal remains. It has long been understood that bones adapt to reflect a person's lifestyle, making each set of bones a narrative in itself. For instance, in 1924, on the Pacific island of Tinian, a collection of remarkably large skeletons was discovered near stone structures. The presence of these sturdy stone formations provided an explanation for the robust nature of the islanders' bones, suggesting their involvement in heavy stone work.

Naturally, they observed significant development in the size of arms, legs, and collarbones. Meanwhile, in Australia, Shaw, Heart, and Sayers propose that modern technology is influencing the skeletal structure of young individuals. This phenomenon revolves around a feature known as the external occipital protuberance (EOP). While some experts and commentators have employed vivid descriptors like "foam ball" or "devil-like horn," in reality, the EOP holds the key to understanding this transformation.

The EOP is a bony protrusion located at the back of the skull, intricately connected to the nuchal ligament. This ligament serves a crucial role in connecting the neck muscles to the skull. The EOP acts like an anchor, exerting an effect on the upper portion of the nuchal ligament. Returning to the researchers' primary objective, they examined X-rays from chiropractors, focusing on individuals aged 18 to 86. Their aim was to gain contemporary insights into skeletal changes, particularly concerning neck pain investigations. Moreover, they sought to explore the potential health consequences of these alterations. Shahar and Sayers observed a widespread presence of the EOP among young people. They postulated that this could be attributed to poor posture during prolonged screen time, as the neck instinctively tilts forward when using phones and tablets.

The underlying theory suggests that when we crane our necks forward, it creates additional pressure on the area where muscles attach to the back of the skull. In response, the EOP gradually lengthens, growing by a few millimeters. This phenomenon has been commonly referred to as "text neck." The findings of the study also indicated that text neck was predominantly observed in men. In 2016, Shahar, Harden, and Sayers reported that 67% of men in a test group of 218 individuals exhibited a larger EOP, compared to only 20% of women. Their research expanded further in 2018, encompassing 1200 individuals, with males being five times more likely to develop these prominent text necks.

However, what could be the potential consequences for humanity? While concerns regarding phone radiation and its potential link to cancer have been widely discussed, can the use of mobile devices actually lead to significant health issues? This recent report has sparked a fresh wave of debates on this topic. Notably, it is the first instance where experts explicitly highlight the impact of technology on our physical well-being. Shahar and Sayers describe the elongation of the EOP as a degenerative process, suggesting that things will only worsen for young individuals if they continue their device usage habits. These findings underscore the need for further examination and awareness regarding the potential long-term effects of excessive device usage on our health.

Another concern worth mentioning is the occurrence of "text thumb" or thumb arthritis, where the thumb can experience significant issues akin to the dreaded carpal tunnel syndrome. However, some critics in the press have scrutinized the study on EOPs, questioning the portrayal of these features as horns or spikes. Experts highlight that the report lacks conclusive evidence and, like any scientific paper, is based on assumptions. Archeologists point out that longer skull bones are not a novel phenomenon and are particularly common in males. According to the critics, the prevailing view is that there is insufficient solid evidence to support the claim that cell phone usage is transforming individuals into something akin to Hellboy. Thus, the question remains: are Shahar and Sayers onto something, or have they simply incorporated well-established facts into their own interpretation? Regardless, there is no denying the profound impact that technology has on our lives.

The notion that successive generations are undergoing transformation as a result of incessant device interaction is indeed a significant concern that demands attention. In the end, it will be the archaeologists of the future who will determine the validity of these claims. Perhaps, in the future, individuals won't even sport prominent spikes protruding from the backs of their necks. It remains uncertain. Therefore, it might be prudent to prioritize spending more time enjoying nature with a leisurely stroll in the park and reducing excessive engagement with addictive mobile games like Angry Birds.

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