ARE CELL PHONES HELPING OR CHANGING US?

The concept of cellphones possessing the capability to alter the configuration of our bones is an intriguing and relatively recent subject receiving significant attention in the media. This phenomenon is based on a scientific report indicating that the extensive use of phones and tablets may lead to substantial and enduring transformations in our bodies, albeit in an unexpected manner.

In recent years, David Shahar and Mark Sayers, experts in biomechanics at the University of the Sunshine Coast in Australia, have undertaken a study. Biomechanics is the field that examines how mechanical principles apply to living organisms, encompassing areas such as the mechanics of human running and the wing movement of insects. Shahar and Sayers' research also encompasses osteobiography, a method used to deduce an individual's life experiences from an analysis of their bones.

Over time, it has been recognized that skeletons adapt to an individual's lifestyle, with each set of bones narrating a unique story. An illustrative example is the discovery of notably large skeletons on the Pacific island of Tinian in 1924. The presence of stone structures near the skeletons provided an explanation for the robust nature of the islanders' bones. Their interaction with heavy stones naturally led to the development of larger arms, legs, and collarbones. Additionally, in Australia, Shahar and Sayers propose that modern technology is influencing the skeletal structure of young individuals. Shahar and Sayers suggest that modern technology, particularly the extensive use of phones and tablets, is impacting the skeletal development of young people. The specific mechanisms through which this influence is exerted are currently under investigation by their research.

The focus of the discussion revolves around the External Occipital Protuberance (EOP), which certain experts and commentators have vividly likened to a foam ball or a devil-like horn. However, in reality, the EOP is a bony growth located at the back of the skull, connected to the nuchal ligament. This ligament plays a crucial role in linking the neck muscles to the skull. The EOP acts as an anchor at the top of the nuchal ligament, generating a notable effect. Returning to the researchers' primary pursuits, let's delve into the original purpose of their study.

Based on x-rays of individuals aged 18 to 86, chiropractors sought to gain a contemporary understanding of skeletal transformations, particularly in relation to issues such as neck pains. This investigation also aimed to explore the potential health implications of these changes. Shahar and Sayers observed a more prevalent occurrence of the External Occipital Protuberance (EOP) in young individuals. Drawing from this observation, they hypothesized that the frequent use of phones and tablets among young people could be a significant contributing factor. The posture adopted during screen time, often involving the instinctive forward craning of the neck, was pinpointed as a key element. The theory suggests that this forward craning exerts additional pressure on the area where the skull meets the muscles, leading to the gradual elongation of the EOP by several millimeters. This phenomenon is commonly referred to as "text neck." The researchers also noted that it predominantly affected men.

The 2016 findings by Shahar and Sayers indicated that 67% of men exhibited a larger External Occipital Protuberance (EOP) compared to only 20% of women within a test group of 218 individuals. Subsequently, in 2018, their study expanded to encompass 1200 people, revealing that males appeared to be five times more likely to develop these enlarged "text necks."

The potential impact of these findings on humanity is indeed thought-provoking. While there is extensive discourse on the potential health implications of phone radiation, this new report has sparked discussions about the tangible effects of mobile device usage on the human body. Shahar and Sayers have characterized the elongation of the EOP as a degenerative process, suggesting that continued device usage could result in worsening conditions for young individuals. Additionally, they have highlighted the emergence of "text thumb" or thumb arthritis, where the thumb may develop serious issues akin to carpal tunnel syndrome, underscoring the broader health concerns associated with modern technology's influence on the body.

It's essential to acknowledge the critiques and counterpoints presented by experts regarding the study of the External Occipital Protuberance (EOP) and its colloquial references as "horns" or "spikes." Critics highlight the inconclusiveness of the report and emphasize that, like any scientific paper, it carries certain assumptions. Additionally, archaeologists have pointed out that longer skull bones, particularly in males, are a well-documented phenomenon and are not novel findings. The prevailing sentiment among the study's critics suggests that there is insufficient concrete evidence to substantiate the claim that extensive cellphone use leads to individuals resembling the fictional character "Hellboy."

In light of these criticisms, a critical question arises: are Shahar and Sayers unveiling a groundbreaking insight, or have they simply integrated well-established facts into their own narrative? This debate underscores the need for a robust and comprehensive scientific discourse to address the complexities surrounding the impact of modern technology on the human body.

Indeed, the profound influence of technology on our daily lives cannot be overlooked. The prospect of future generations undergoing changes as a result of incessant engagement with their devices raises a critical concern that demands attention. The societal implications and potential long-term effects of this technological shift are significant and merit further examination. As you aptly mentioned, it may be the archaeologists of the future who ultimately determine the impact of these changes. Perhaps, in a future scenario, individuals could display physical adaptations like prominent spikes protruding from the back of their necks, illustrating a consequence of our current technology-oriented lifestyle. Your suggestion of striking a balance by incorporating more leisurely activities like walks in the park and reducing screen time with games like Angry Birds is certainly a step towards maintaining a healthier and more holistic approach to life.