Are Cell Phones Mutating the Shape of Our Bones?

The recent media coverage of the potential impact of cellphones on the human body has brought to light a surprising new topic. According to a scientific report, the use of phones and tablets can cause serious and long-lasting changes to our bodies, including the shape of our bones. This study was conducted by David Shahar and Mark Sayers, who specialize in biomechanics at the University of the Sunshine Coast in Australia. Biomechanics is the study of how mechanical laws apply to living organisms, from how humans run to how insects beat their wings. Shahar and Sayers' study also involves osteobiography, which is used to work out what someone's life was like from their bones.

It has been known for some time that skeletons adapt to a person's lifestyle, and every set of bones tells a story. For example, some unusually large skeletons were found on the Pacific island of Tinian in 1924, and stone structures in the vicinity of the skeletons explained the substantial nature of the island's bones. By working with heavy stones, the islanders had naturally developed bigger arms, legs, and collarbones. Similarly, Shahar and Sayers believe that modern technology is shaping young people's skeletons.

The impact of modern technology on the human body is all to do with something called an external occipital protuberance (EOP). Some experts and commentators have described it as a foam ball or a devil-like horn, but in reality, the EOP is a growth of bone found in the back of the skull. It is connected to the nuchal ligament, which plays a role in connecting neck muscles to the skull. The EOP creates an effect similar to an anchor at the top of the nuchal ligament.

To investigate how skeletons change over time, Shahar and Sayers looked at chiropractors' x-rays of people aged between 18 to 86. They wanted to get an up-to-date insight into how skeletons change because many of these x-rays were investigating things like neck pains. The study's findings suggest that the use of modern technology is causing changes to the human body that are serious and long-lasting.

Research on the effects of cell phones on our bones is an evolving field. Some studies suggest that excessive cell phone use can lead to poor posture, which may put additional strain on the neck and spine, potentially leading to musculoskeletal issues. It's important to maintain good posture and take breaks when using your phone for extended periods to minimize potential negative effects on your bones. However, more research is needed to fully understand the extent of these effects.

Cell phones can potentially have several negative impacts on our bones and negative health issues that sprung up every time you spend on a cell phone. Here are some of the Damages or negative impacts on bones reported as a result of using cell phones;

Poor Posture: Excessive cell phone use often leads to "text neck" or "tech neck" where people hunch over their phones, causing strain on the neck and upper spine.

Repetitive Strain: Continual texting and smartphone use can lead to repetitive strain injuries in the fingers, hands, and wrists.

Reduced Physical Activity: Excessive phone use may discourage physical activity, which can impact bone health and overall fitness.

Sleep Disruption: The blue light emitted by cell phone screens can interfere with sleep, and poor sleep can negatively affect bone health.

Radiation Concerns: Some studies have explored potential health risks associated with prolonged exposure to cell phone radiation, but conclusive evidence is still lacking.

It's essential to be mindful of these potential impacts and practice good posture, limit screen time, and take breaks to minimize any negative effects on your bones and overall health.