CELL PHONES A DANGER TO OUR BONES?

ARE CELL PHONES A DANGER TO OUR BONES?

Cellphones potentially causing changes to our bones is a new topic in the media. A scientific report suggests that using phones and tablets could seriously affect our bodies. Researchers David Shahar and Mark Sayers studied biomechanics at the University of the Sunshine Coast. They found that using electronic devices can lead to long-lasting changes in our bodies. Osteobiography is used to determine a person's lifestyle from their bones. Our skeletons adapt to our lives, telling a story of our activities. For example, larger skeletons found on Tinian Island were attributed to heavy stonework.

Modern technology is thought to be affecting young people's skeletons in Australia. One aspect of this is the growth of the External Occipital Protuberance (EOP), a bone at the back of the skull. The EOP is connected to the nuchal ligament, which connects neck muscles to the skull. Researchers studied X-rays from chiropractors to see how skeletons change with age, especially neck pain. They also examined the potential health consequences of these changes.

Shahar and Sayers noticed that the EOP was more common in young people. They hypothesized that constantly looking down at phones and tablets was a factor. This posture causes the neck to crane forward, putting pressure on the EOP area. This can lead to EOP gradually growing longer. This effect is known as "text neck". Studies showed it was more common in men. In 2016, 67% of men had EOP compared to 20% of women in a test group of 218 people. By 2018, they studied 1200 people and found males were 5 times more likely to have EOP. The potential impact on health from using mobile devices is a concern.

The recent publication has sparked discussions on this subject as it marks the first instance where professionals are explicitly highlighting the influence of technology on our physical well-being. Shahar & Sayers have characterized the elongated YO PS as a degenerative process, suggesting that the situation may worsen for young individuals who continue to excessively use their electronic devices. Additionally, there is a condition known as text thumb or thumb arthritis, which can lead to serious issues similar to carpal tunnel syndrome. Despite this, the concept of EOPS being referred to as horns with spikes has faced criticism from various sources. Experts emphasize that the report lacks conclusive evidence and, like any scientific document, is based on assumptions. Archaeologists argue that longer skull bones are not a recent phenomenon and are particularly common in males. According to critics of the studies, there is insufficient concrete proof to support the assertion that cell phone usage is transforming individuals into Hellboys. Therefore, the question remains: are Shahar and Sayers onto something, or have they simply repurposed existing facts to fit their narrative? Regardless, the undeniable truth is technology's a significant impact on our daily lives.

The notion that future generations are undergoing significant transformations as a result of continuous engagement with their electronic devices is indeed a grave matter that necessitates attention. Ultimately, it will be the archaeologists of the future who will determine the extent of these changes, perhaps without any prominent protrusions.